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The Perfect 2, 3 or 4 Days in Tromso Itinerary

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Nestled amidst Norway’s northern wilderness, 200 miles north of the Arctic Circle, you’ll find the city of Tromso. Captivating intrepid explorers with its ethereal landscapes and vibrant cultural centre. Known as the “Gateway to the Arctic,” this enchanting city is a true winter wonderland. Use this Tromso itinerary to plan your perfect Arctic adventure. Spend 2, 3 or 4 days in Tromso to discover the bustling energy of its city centre, tranquil snow-draped fjords, and vast, untamed wilderness. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Tromso?

The first thing you will want to do when planning your Arctic itinerary is decide how many days to spend in Tromso. Unfortunately, this question has no easy answer; it revolves around how many activities you want to do during your stay.

The possibilities are endless. To keep it simple, we have allocated one day to explore the city itself, and then any additional days are dedicated to local activities. 

So, if you only want to do 2 activities, you could fit them into 2 days in Tromso. But be warned, you are guaranteed to fall in love with this winter wonderland, so if possible, try to allocate more time to explore. 

With 3 days in Tromso, you will discover the city centre and rich culture and enjoy at least 3 or even 4 activities of your choosing. Most activities are 3 – 4 hours, so you can easily fit 2 into one day. 

If you are lucky enough to have a full 4 days in Tromso, or even longer, you’ll be able to fully immerse yourself in the Arctic experience. You could squeeze in at least 6 activities in 4 days if you wanted to pack out your holiday or take 4 or 5 at a slower pace.

Some of these activities can be fairly physical, so taking the full 4 days will allow you to take time out in between to relax without feeling like you are missing out. 

The best time to visit Tromso is in the winter. Most of the activities available around the city rely on snow cover, making a winter trip ideal. The Northern lights are also at their most active around this time, so this would be your best chance to see them dancing across the sky in all their glory.

The winter also gives you the opportunity to experience Polar Night from November to January. You could visit during the summer, especially if you want to see the midnight sun, but hiking is the only activity readily available during the warmer months.  

Getting To & Around Tromso 

Once you see Tromso on a map, it may seem like getting there would be difficult. You have several options to reach Tromso; the quickest and easiest is by plane. Tromso has its own international airport, Tromsø Airport, Langnes, which is well-connected to major cities in Norway and some international destinations.

There are direct flights from Oslo , so this is the most popular way to reach this Arctic city, fly into Oslo and then take a connecting flight to Tromso. Oslo is a major airport with flights inbound from most major international airports. 

If you don’t want to fly, then there are several additional options to get to Tromso. While there’s no direct train connection to Tromso, you can take a train to Narvik, the closest train station to Tromso. From Narvik, you can take a bus or rent a car to reach Tromso.

Some cruise ships and ferries include Tromsø in their itineraries, especially during the summer months. The Hurtigruten coastal ferry service also stops in Tromso, providing a scenic and unique way to reach the city.

If you’re already in Norway or a neighbouring country – for instance, exploring northern Sweden or Finnish Lapland — you can drive to Tromso.

Keep in mind that driving conditions can be challenging in Tromso in winter due to snow and ice, so it’s important to be prepared for the weather and road conditions.

If you are taking your own car on the road trip of a lifetime, make sure you have fitted winter tyres and have snow chains ready. You can browse Rentalcars.com to compare prices for car hire in Tromso.

Once you have arrived for your trip to Tromso, getting around is quick and easy. Tromso city centre is relatively compact, making it a great place for walking. Most major attractions, shops, restaurants, and hotels are within walking distance of each other.

If your accommodation is on the outskirts, Tromso has a well-developed public transportation system, including buses that cover various parts of the city. The bus system is reliable, and you can buy tickets onboard or through mobile apps.

If you have a car, parking in Tromso can be expensive, so it’s best to park outside of the centre and walk or take the bus into the heart of the city. Most activity providers for a day trip offer a pickup and drop-off service from your hotel, so you don’t need to hire a car to make the most of this Tromso itinerary.

2, 3 to 4 Days in Tromso Itinerary

The trip of a lifetime awaits, this winter destination is pure magic. The colourful buildings, vibrant against the snowy landscape, the majestic fjord, and boats bobbing in the harbour. The city of Tromso is the perfect postcard for northern Norway.

Combine the city with the myriad of outdoor activities on offer, and you have a recipe for the perfect trip. It’s time to delve into this Arctic itinerary, the very best of Tromso in 2-4 days. 

Day 1 – Explore Tromso City

Tromso city .

Tromso’s city centre is a vibrant Arctic hub that seamlessly blends history with modernity. The iconic Storgata Street is the beating heart of the centre; here, you will find souvenir shops, local cafes, artisan producers and plenty of window shopping opportunities.

The city is compact, so you can explore the centre on foot. Take your time, strolling through the streets, taking in some of the unusual architecture. Don’t forget to wrap up warm; you’ll need a good winter coat, gloves, a hat and some sort of thermal layers. You can book a walking tour if you want to learn about the city from a local guide.

Arctic Cathedral 

Next, take a walk across the Tromso Bridge to reach The Arctic Cathedral. The bridge is 1km long, so it can take 15-20 minutes to make your way across, but it is worth it for the views along the way.

The cathedral stands as a striking masterpiece against the Arctic sky. Its contemporary, triangular design resembles an ice-bound cathedral. A wonder of architecture, the Arctic Cathedral is one of the most iconic landscapes in Tromso. You can enter and explore the interior for 55 NOK.

Polar Museum 

The Polar Museum is a captivating look into the world of Arctic exploration and survival. Housed in a historic warehouse, it recounts the daring expeditions of legendary explorers who braved the frozen unknown. 

Exhibits bring to life the stories of polar heroes across the ages, their challenges, and triumphs while also showcasing incredible artefacts. There is a large area dedicated to Roald Amundsen, the first person to travel to the North and South Poles as well as many other adventurers that headed out in search of the North Pole from Tromso.

Something that is worth noting, alongside the world-famous male explorers, the museum also delves into the lives of many female explorers, such as Monica Kristensen Solås and Liv Arnesen.

The museum’s displays also give you an insight into indigenous cultures and the Arctic’s fragile ecosystem. 

Polaria Arctic Experience Centre

Nestled on the shore, just outside of the city centre, the Polaria Arctic Experience Centre offers an immersive journey into the polar realms. Architecturally unique, its icy design mirrors the Arctic’s frozen landscapes surrounding the city. 

Within, you will discover interactive exhibits showcasing Arctic ecosystems, wildlife, and climate challenges. The centrepiece, an Arctic aquarium, housing bearded seals that gracefully glide through icy waters. Polaris also presents compelling short films capturing the essence of Arctic life.

Fjellheisen

Ascending from Tromso, the Fjellheisen cable car unveils a breathtaking panorama of the Arctic landscape high above the city. A brief ascent transports you to Storsteinen Mountain’s summit, where you will find far-reaching views across fjords, down to the city lights, and across to snow-cloaked peaks.

Day or night, this journey is like something out of a dreamscape, especially if you are lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights gracing the sky. 

If you want to walk around at the top, you will need sturdy boots and crampons, as the terrain is very icy. The best views of the city are from the viewing platform, so there is no need to prepare for any hiking if you don’t want to. 

Sami cuisine may not be the most widely recognised, but it is worth embracing the local food during your stay. There is plenty to discover, some of which you may never have heard of before, a true culinary journey.

Local restaurants offer a taste of reindeer meat prepared in diverse ways, from tender roasts to savoury stews. Sample cured fish, such as the iconic ‘rakfisk,’ and indulgent desserts like ‘gáhkko’ – a sweet pastry infused with lingonberries. 

These dishes pay homage to centuries of Sami heritage, their connection with the land, and their ability to transform Arctic ingredients. Dining in Tromso’s Sami-inspired eateries is not only delicious, but it also deepens your appreciation for the indigenous traditions.

Day 2 – Dog Sledding & the Northern Lights

Dog sledding .

After spending the day in the city centre, it’s time to kick off the winter adventure activities. If you only have 2 days in Tromso, this is a must-do, hence why it is the first feature on our itinerary. 

Embarking on a dog sledding experience is an exhilarating immersion into the Arctic wilderness. Guided by the rhythmic harmony of eager huskies, you are whisked away across the snow-blanketed landscapes beneath the Nordic sky.

You can opt to take a self-drive tour where you are in charge of handling your sled or book a husky sledding guide such as this full-day tour. Husky guides share their passion and insights, which can definitely enhance the experience, but there is no experience quite like opting for self-drive.

This way, you get to drive the sledge yourself, taking turns with a partner. You head out in a small group with experienced mushers on hand to help if needed. It is exhilarating, and you learn so much along the way. Some of the daytime tours include a traditional Sami lunch in a traditional, heated tent.

The bond between humans and these remarkable animals spans the ages, and having the opportunity to experience this traditional way of traversing the icy tundra is a once-in-a-lifetime experience and one of the best things to do in Tromso.

Northern Lights Tour

If there is one other essential tour on your trip to Norway, it’s the Aurora chasing Northern Lights tour such as this 7-hour tour or this minibus tour.

Unlike some of the other stationary Northern Lights watching tours you actually chase the lights all night long on a minibus – sometimes even dipping into neighbouring Finland or Sweden! 

Witnessing the cosmic wonder of the Aurora Borealis is an experience unlike any other. The sky dances with vibrant hues as ethereal curtains of green, pink, and purple paint the night canvas. 

It’s worth noting most of the late-night guided tours offer a meal around 10pm, so it may be worth packing a few snacks to keep you going until then. 

Day 3 – Fjords, Orcas & Reindeer

Fjord trip / orca watching.

Sailing through the fjords may sound like a summer activity, but taking a trip out onto the water such as on this full-day tour is one of the top things to do in Tromso in the winter. The whale-watching season runs from November to January, so if you are hoping to cruise alongside Orcas, this is the perfect time to visit. 

That first glimpse of the dorsal fin slicing through the waves is magical. These sleek giants arrive alongside your boat against a backdrop of snow-clad peaks.

If you are lucky, you could even see them breach up out of the water, excluding power and grace. Guided by marine experts, you learn about their behaviours, migrations, and the fragile balance of the Arctic ecosystem. 

If you are visiting outside of the whale watching months, don’t worry, you can still enjoy a boat ride through the icy depths to witness a variety of Arctic inhabitants such as dolphins, seals and majestic eagles. 

Reindeer Sledding

Most of the boating trips on the fjord take up the majority of the day, but that doesn’t mean your day has to end there. Visiting the traditional Sami reindeer herds is an activity that can be done day or night on several tours such as this half-day tour or this evening tour.

It’s important to understand the Sami culture and heritage and how you, as a tourist, can support their indigenous population. Visiting a Sami reindeer farm is a great way to immerse yourself in their culture and learn about local traditions.

After a walk around the Reindeer farm and a 20-minute sledding tour through the sparkling frosty landscape, the majority of the tour takes place in a Lavvu, which is a Sami tent. Here you will have a meal (typically Bido, a Reindeer stew), then experience Sami storytelling and Joiking (which is a traditional Sami song). 

This is the perfect activity to do at night, you are far away from the light pollution of the city centre, so it’s likely you will get to see the Northern Lights again whilst enjoying the rhythmic sound of the bells attached to the reindeer as they trot through the snow. If you have 3 days in Tromso, this is the perfect activity to end your trip. 

Day 4 – Tromso Ice Domes & Snow Activities

If you are lucky enough to have 4 days in Tromso, there are a few options for your last day, depending on how much of an adrenaline junkie you consider yourself to be. 

Whilst you may not usually include visiting a hotel on your itinerary, the Tromso Ice Domes is the exception. Working around the clock, a dedicated team built these magnificent domes from scratch over the course of 6 weeks.

Using large chunks of ice from a nearby river, each room is handcrafted into the ice, lasting the winter months and then melting away as the weather begins to warm up. There’s no doubt that this is one of the best places to visit in Tromso.

There are full-day tours available , whether you are staying in the hotel or not. Take a shuttle bus (1.5hr) from Tromso through the jaw-dropping Arctic landscapes, then take a guided tour to learn more about the icy hotel.

You can enjoy a drink at the bar and a bite to eat in the restaurant before heading back to Tromso. If you have the budget, you could spend the night in one of the Ice Dome’s rooms, but it is very expensive. 

Snowshoeing

Guided by the soft crunch of each step, weave through silent forests and across frozen expanses. If you are an avid hiker, this is an amazing way to experience nature in a unique way. Led by experienced guides, you learn about the Arctic’s delicate ecosystem and its resilient inhabitants. 

If you are an experienced outdoor enthusiast, you may want to hire your own snowshoes and head off into the wilderness without a guide, but for those of you that want the comfort and knowledge of local experts, several guided tours such as this half-day tour are available. 

Snowmobile Safari

At a slightly faster pace, our next option for day 4 is a snowmobile safari tour. Tromso is located on the outskirts of the Lyngen Alps, making it the perfect base for a full-day excursion into the wilderness. 

Guided by seasoned experts, you roar across snow-blanketed landscapes, feeling the thrill of speed in the heart of winter’s embrace. Additional waterproof snowsuits are provided to make sure you are dressed up, ready for the blasting of icy air.  

It is worth noting you can only hire a snowmobile if you have a full driver’s license. 

Cross country skiing 

Whether you are an experienced skier or not, you can strap on your ski boots and head out on a cross-country skiing adventure. Gliding along groomed trails, you become part of nature, the only sound being the swish of your skis.

With towering mountains and serene fjords as your backdrop, each stride reveals more of the Arctic’s untouched beauty. There are trails suitable for everyone around Tromso, but if you are a real beginner, there are several options for lessons such as this 3-hour lesson or this guided trip. 

Where to Stay in Tromso

Thon Hotel Polar – Located in the centre of Tromso, this hotel is perfect for mid-rage travellers visiting this northern Norwegian city. They have a number of hip rooms to choose from and there is breakfast available each morning. Click here to check availability

Scandic Ishavshotel – This 4-star hotel is a fantastic option if you’re looking for a high-end place to stay when visiting Tromso. They have a number of plush rooms to choose from along with breakfast and an on-site restaurant. Click here to check availability

Tromsø City Apartments – Those looking for a self-catering place to stay in Tromso will love these cool apartments in the centre of the city. There are a range of flats to choose from and all come fully equipped with all you may need during your stay. Click here to check availability

Tromso Activities Hostel – If you’re looking for a great budget option or if you’re travelling solo, then this hostel is an excellent choice. They offer both dorms and private rooms, good self-catering facilities and an excellent location for exploring the city. Click here to check availability

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Tromso hotels!

An unforgettable adventure high up in the Arctic Circle. Tromso is the beating heart of Northern Norway, blending history and culture with wildlife and vast snow-covered landscapes. This really is a trip of a lifetime, with incredible experiences around every corner. There’s nowhere quite like it. 

Are you planning to visit Tromso? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Neota Langley

Neota is a writer for The World Was Here First. Born and bred in Cornwall, she can usually be found with hiking boots on, ready to embark on an adventure. For the last 6 years, she has travelled throughout Europe in her self-built campervan with her trusty canine companion, Ivy. She loves exploring France, the Nordics and spending time in Alpine destinations.

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Tromsø: Things To Do, Tours & Secret Locals’ Tips

Tromsø , the lively and wonderful “Capital of the Arctic” : a town perched on an island scenically set in the middle of a strait surrounded by steep mountains, islands with dramatic landscapes and the Arctic Ocean . In this guide – written by a local – you will find all the best tips on the best things to do in Tromsø , the best places to visit, the attractions you can’t miss!

If you are planning your trip to Tromsø and Northern Norway , then here you will find everything you need, explained in depth and in an easy way. Tromsø is a beautiful city, with nice museums and excellent restaurants and hotels, but those who visit Tromsø do it for the many activities you can do in the surrounding area!

Visiting Tromsø in winter will allow you to enjoy all those outdoor tours and activities that make it a one-of-a-kind destination: Northern Lights , Whale Watching , Fjord Cruises , Dog Sledding , Reindeer Sledding and much more! In summer , Tromsø and its surroundings are the perfect place for boat trips, road trips, nature walks and to admire the impressive Midnight Sun . Whatever the season, you will find all the advice you need on the best activities and how to choose the best tours from Tromsø.

What you will find in this guide to visiting Tromsø:

Best Things to Do in Tromsø

Tromsø museums, attractions & places to visit, best things to do in tromsø in winter (roughly october to march), best things to do in tromsø in summer (roughly april to september), day trips from tromsø, how to get to tromsø, tromsø sunrise and sunset calendar (month by month), faqs about visiting tromsø, chasing the northern lights in tromsø.

The Northern Lights are one of the most beautiful things you could see in your life. Magic lights dancing in the sky, in soft shades of greenish-yellow, purple and blue. When I lived in Tromsø , I loved to go to the woods, to the edge of the fjords or to the huts in the mountains, and spend time contemplating the beauty, the magnificence, the peace of the Northern Lights.

Tromsø is one of the most famous places in the world to see the Northern Lights . From September to April you can chase them every night, especially between 9pm and 2am, which are usually the best hours.

Actually, the area around Tromsø is good for seeing the Northern Lights , but it’s not the best. This is essentially due to two reasons: it is a fairly large town, so the street lights make it more difficult to get a decent view (and photograph) of the Northern Lights, and it is located on the ocean, which often makes its sky cloudy, preventing you from seeing the Northern Lights.

This is why, if you want to see the best Northern Lights , you will need to go to the most remote areas around Tromsø , along the fjords or in the forests, to the inland mountains or to the most remote islands, away from the city lights. The further inland you go, the higher your chances of getting clear skies . Along the coast it is quite common to have cloudy skies, which obstruct the view of the Northern Lights.

In Tromsø there are some specialized operators who offer excellent Northern Lights Tours : these are local guides with a long experience, they are often expert photographers and have a deep knowledge of the territory, the Northern Lights, the Arctic environment and the local culture.

They will allow you to see the best Northern Lights, as they have the most up-to-date and sophisticated information from observatories and meteorologists, as well as a communication network that allows guides to receive information on the areas with the most favorable weather to see the Northern Lights . Not infrequently, tours go beyond the Finnish border to allow you to see them. You may have to travel 300 km before you can spot them, but when you see them, every effort will be well rewarded.

Below you will find a curated selection of the BEST Northern Lights tours in Tromsø , offered by top specialist operators, boasting expert local guides and decades of honorable service. But be warned, this is by far the most popular thing to do in Tromsø, so it is highly advisable to book well in advance !

Northern Lights Tour from Tromsø with an Expert Local Guide

The most popular thing to do in Tromsø is join one of the Northern Lights Tours which every night – roughly from mid-September to early April – allow travelers, photographers and enthusiasts to chase the best and most beautiful Northern Lights.

This is the most classic option: it is a guided tour held in small groups and led by 1-2 experienced licensed guides and an experienced local driver. A minibus will pick you up in Tromsø city center (usually near the harbor) and take you to some scenic spots around Tromsø where the chance to spot the Northern Lights is highest. These change from night to night depending on the weather conditions: guides have experience, skills and tools to identify the best areas.

Sometimes, if the area around Tromsø isn’t good enough to see the Northern Lights, guides will take you to the heart of Finnish Lapland or some remote inland areas. Guides will do their best to allow you to see the best Northern Lights, which you might not otherwise be able to see without their help.

Northern Lights Tours usually last 7-8 hours , depending on the weather conditions and the time needed to reach the most suitable areas for sighting the Northern Lights. The guides will be able to help you take pictures and set up your camera correctly. Usually they too will take some pictures of you with the Northern Lights, which will be sent to you after a few hours!

You will also be able to benefit from special suits and thermal equipment , designed to keep you warm during the activity, and you can borrow one of their professional photo tripods for free to take your photos. You will usually spend a few hours outdoors, around a bonfire, waiting for the Northern Lights. In the meantime, your guides will tell you stories, legends and will be happy to answer all your questions about the Northern Lights and local culture. At the end of the tour they will take you back to Tromsø. This is arguably the safest , most affordable and carefree way to spot the Northern Lights in Tromsø , but it’s also the most popular, so book early!

An excellent alternative, especially if you want to hone your Northern Lights photography skills , is the Northern Lights Tour with Photographer . Other good and cheaper alternatives could be this , this and this .

Tromsø Northern Lights Photo Cruise

If you want a more relaxed experience, then you could opt for a Tromsø Northern Lights Photo Cruise : a night boat ride through the scenic fjords around Tromsø. Depending on the weather report the captain will choose the best route to get clear skies and the highest chance of seeing the Northern Lights .

You will be able to enjoy a relaxed chase of the Northern Lights, enjoying a peaceful cruise (hot drinks, biscuits and thermal winter suits are provided for free) and relaxing under the stars, in the amazing outdoor jacuzzi or in the sauna located on the deck of the ship. And when the captain spots the Northern Lights , he will slow down the boat, slowly drifting along with the current. So that you can fully enjoy the Northern Lights dance, and snap photos.

Dog Sledding Experiences in Tromsø

Dog sledding is one of the most popular activities in Northern Norway – locals love it, and in the area around Tromsø there are several husky farms that offer the chance to meet these adorable dogs and experience the exciting dog sledding experience .

By participating in a Husky Dog Sledding Adventure , expert local guides will pick you up in Tromsø and take you to a nearby husky farm located on the island of Kvaløya . Here you can meet over 130 adorable Alaskan huskies . You will learn a lot about dog sledding and the discipline of dog mushing , which in Norway is a kind of national sport.

The best time for dog sledding in Tromsø is between November and early April , when there is still enough snow. Dog sledding is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Tromsø, so make sure you don’t miss it! No skills are required , so you can participate even if it’s your first time! Furthermore, it is a family-friendly activity , although recommended for kids over 7 years old.

Each sled requires two people: one is the musher , the one who commands the sled and the team of dogs, the other is the passenger . Halfway through the route, we usually switch roles, so that both can experience the thrill of driving a dog sled! However, if you are traveling with the kids, you can choose to ride the dog sled all the way, while the kids can enjoy the experience as a passenger, which is just as beautiful and exciting!

You will be able to pamper dogs and find out about their personality. For dogs, dog sledding is a fun activity, and each dog has its own personality and natural role within the team. After meeting your team, usually made up of 6-8 specially trained dogs , you can set off on your dog sledding adventure through breathtaking snowy valleys.

In approximately 1.5 hours you will reach a Sami camp , where you will be welcomed into a lavvu , the traditional tent of the Sami people, the natives of Lapland . Here you can enjoy a hot drink and a delicious piece of homemade cake. You will spend time with the locals, sitting around the cozy fireplace, and it will be a good opportunity to learn more about the Sami and the peoples of Northern Norway . The tour includes round-trip transport, an English-speaking guide, and all necessary equipment, including warm arctic suits and boots.

For a truly unforgettable experience , you could opt for a Dogsledding Evening at Camp Tamok . Locals love the evening dog sledding. Sure, you won’t be able to enjoy the fabulous daytime landscapes, but you may well spot the Northern Lights if you’re lucky enough. In fact, daytime and evening dogsledding are two very different experiences, and both are very beautiful. If you have the chance, I recommend you try them both!

Tromsø Fjord Cruises

Another must-do in Tromsø is a nice fjord cruise , which will allow you to enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the fjords and islands around Tromsø . You will sail in the dramatic scenery of the Arctic Ocean, between landscapes covered with snow and ice and scenic sounds, narrow and islets dotted with tiny fishing villages.

Tromsø Fjord Cruises are held all year round , in winter you can enjoy the magical snowy landscape, while in summer you can enjoy the stunning views of the green islands dominated by steep and peaky mountains, as well as spot a large number of seabirds, such as eagles , puffins and seals !

Tromsø Wildlife Fjord Cruise with Lunch and Drinks

One of the most popular things to do in Tromsø is the Wildlife Fjord Cruise with Lunch and Drinks . You will enjoy a 5-hour cruise on the Arctic Ocean , explore the most beautiful fjords around Tromsø and see some of the main attractions along the coast, such as fishing villages and even a submarine bunker from the Cold War.

This is a relaxed and family-friendly activity . The guides will allow you to discover many interesting things about the geography of Northern Norway and the local wildlife and culture. You can try your hand at fishing (gear provided free) and spotting sea eagles and many other sea birds, as well as killer whales , beluga whales , porpoises , seals and more. You can also relax with a good lunch , based on local seafood.

Tromsø Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran

Another great fjord cruise around Tromsø is the Arctic Fjord Cruise by Hybrid-Electric Catamaran . It is similar to the previous one, but does not include lunch on board and is more suitable for those who want a more ethical and green experience , as the boat tour is mainly designed for the sighting of arctic fauna , sea birds and local culture .

The tour is held with a hybrid-electric catamaran , which allows you to switch to the silent engine in the vicinity of whales or other animals, so as not to scare them. No fishing activities are planned, while you will visit some authentic small fishing villages , some active fisheries and modern fish farms and some ancient island communities on the outside of Kvaløya , the island also known as “Whale Island” . Here you can get in touch with the local culture, and learn more about life in Northern Norway.

Tromsø Arctic Sailing Safari

This will be an experience you will love! The Tromsø Arctic Sailing Safari is the most immersive fjord cruise around Tromsø , lasting around 5 hours and only held in small groups. You will set sail on a sailing catamaran and your licensed professional skipper will take you through some of the most scenic fjords around Tromsø .

Along the way you will be able to see seals , orcas , eagles and other sea birds . You will cross excellent fishing areas , and you will be able to try your hand at Arctic fishing . They will provide you with everything you need, including thermal gear that will keep you warm. You will be able to try to catch some fish, which will be used to make a delicious fish soup . On the way back you will enjoy a good lunch based mainly on the catch of the day, served in the warmth of the catamaran cabin.

Whale watching in Tromsø and Skjervøy

The more remote fjords around Tromsø are one of the best places in the world for whale watching . Between early November and early February , hundreds of cetaceans arrive in the calm waters north and northeast of Tromsø, attracted by the abundance of herring and plankton they feed on.

Until about ten years ago, whales were easily spotted in the vicinity of Tromsø , so much so that the large island just north of the city is called Kvaløya , which means Whale Island . Now, due to climate change and increased maritime traffic around Tromsø, whales have moved to some more remote areas, especially near the small fishing village of Skjervøy , located about 200km northeast of Tromsø.

Excellent whale watching tours by hybrid-electric catamaran depart from Tromsø , lasting around 8-9 hours . These tours are carried out with a specially designed boat : when the boat is close enough to the whales, the captain switches to a super-silent electric engine , so as to allow you to spot whales in an ethical and sustainable way .

The whales will not be disturbed or frightened by the boat, so they will continue to swim and feed, allowing you to see them at their best. The crews are highly experienced and specially trained , have tools to locate whales and know the best areas to go. So the chances of spotting whales on a tour are very high. Make sure you bring your camera!

For an even better experience , you might want to check out the exciting RIB Boat Whale Watching Tour on Skjervøy . Expert guides will take you to the beautiful island of Skjervøy , set in a breathtaking landscape, on one of the most remote fjords in Northern Norway , surrounded by uninhabited islands covered with high mountains and glaciers.

The RIB Boat allows a small group to explore the more remote areas of the fjord, a perfect place for whale watching . The small boat, unlike the large ones used for classic tours, will allow you to get closer to the cetacean colonies, which are not stressed by small boats.

Arctic Experience: Overnight Lavvu Stay with Fjords, Whales & Aurora

If you are visiting Tromsø in the winter, you may want to opt for an Arctic Experience (Overnight Lavvu Stay with Fjords, Whales & Aurora) that combines some of the best things to do around Tromsø in one tour. You will enjoy the breathtaking scenery of the fjords around Tromsø , enjoy the unforgettable RIB Boat tour to Skjervøy to spot whales, porpoises, orcas and humpback whales.

You will explore the magical landscapes of the remote Kvaenangen Fjord , then continue on to the Lyngen Alps , overlooking the fabulous Lyngenfjord . Here you can stay overnight in a private crystal lavvu , a modern reinterpretation of the traditional lavvu , the typical tent of the peoples of Lapland. Your lavvu will be warm, cozy and comfortable, with a transparent glass roof , perfect for seeing the Northern Lights .

Enjoy a delicious dinner of homemade local food , then spend the evening watching the Northern Lights . You will also be able to participate in a short photo workshop on how to take great shots of the Northern Lights . In the morning, a generous breakfast will be waiting for you, and then you will be driven back to Tromsø. This experience is quite in demand and availability is very limited, so book early!

Experience Lapp Culture: Reindeer and Sami Culture

When in Tromsø you shouldn’t miss the chance to learn more about the local culture . You could join an exciting reindeer farm tour , where you can experience the magic of reindeer sledding and meet some Sami people dressed in their traditional clothes.

The Sami are the native people of Lapland . The lands of the far north of Scandinavia are the native territory of these nomadic peoples , who are mostly reindeer herders . Lapland extends over much of Northern Norway , Northern Sweden and Finland . Even though their traditional way of life is threatened by progress and modernity today, the Sami seek to protect their cultural roots and traditions.

I personally lived and worked with some Sami people , nowadays most of them are perfectly integrated into modern society. They live, work and dress like every other Norwegian, so don’t expect to find Sami in traditional costume around Norway, except at tourist attractions. In fact, some nomadic herders still exist , but it won’t be easy to meet them, as they live in the most remote areas of Lapland .

The Sami are very proud of their origins, they boast an exciting history and culture (it is not easy to live in such extreme lands!) and their traditional costumes are truly wonderful: finely decorated in blue, red and white colors. The Sami people use to dress traditionally on special occasions and on traditional holidays. Hence, a traveler should not miss the chance to meet them , to see their wonderful traditional clothing and to learn more about their history and culture.

Visiting a traditional reindeer farm you can meet hundreds of wild reindeer : these animals are much loved and respected, you will be able to see for yourself how cute and affectionate they are. You can even feed them from your hands , an unmissable experience if you are traveling with kids.

Also you can experience a magical reindeer sled ride , but don’t expect a long ride, as it is usually just about ten minutes or half an hour ride. You will meet the Sami and warm up around the fire inside a candle lit gamme (traditional Sami hut). You can also enjoy a traditional Sami stew cooked over the open fire , then join your host in a lavvu (Sami tent) and gather round the fire to listen to stories about Sami culture.

You can opt for a daytime experience , or for an evening one . Personally I prefer the evening one , as the atmosphere of the Sami camp in the evening is truly unforgettable and will be one of the highlights of your trip . And maybe, you will also be able to see the Northern Lights , as the Sami camp is a good place to spot them!

Experience the thrill of a Snowmobile Safari

Locals love snowmobiling! In winter it is very popular and wandering the countryside around Tromsø it will be quite common to see people in snowmobiles. Do as the locals do, experience the thrill of a snowmobile safari among the breathtaking snowy landscapes of Northern Norway !

You could join a snowmobile safari in the beautiful Lyngen Alps , a mountainous area that boasts scenic valleys , steep mountains and stunning fjord views . This is one of the best spots for a snowmobile safari, as there are many miles of trails and opportunities for driving through forests, snow-covered valleys and along fjords and rivers.

Each snowmobile carries 2 people, one as a driver and one as a passenger , and along the route – which takes 2 hours – there is plenty of opportunities to switch places. The experience is also suitable for beginners , is led by licensed expert guides, includes round-trip transport from Tromsø, and you will be provided with everything you need, including warm suits and boots . Plus, you can also enjoy a good lunch or dinner at a camp that will be the end point of your safari.

You can opt for a morning snowmobile safari , or an evening snowmobile safari . They are quite similar, and even if the evening one is a bit more impressive, I prefer the one in the morning , as it allows you to enjoy the beautiful landscapes of the Lyngen Alps to the fullest.

Stay overnight at Tromsø Ice Domes: Tromsø’s wonderful ice hotel

For an unforgettable holiday and to fully experience the magical atmosphere of the Far North , you could opt for a stay at the wonderful Tromsø Ice Domes . Highly recommended especially for couples , this all-inclusive experience combines a stay in a magical ice hotel with some of the best activities to do in Tromsø.

An English-speaking guide will pick you up in Tromsø and take you near Camp Tamok , after 1.5 hours of driving through the beautiful mountainous landscapes south of Tromsø. The enchanting Tamok Valley is located in the heart of Norwegian Lapland , nestled between scenic mountains and crisscrossed by rushing streams, just a few kilometers from the Swedish and Finnish borders. This is a perfect place to spot the Northern Lights !

The Tromsø Ice Domes is located right next to Camp Tamok, and is an ice hotel that is rebuilt every year , as it melts in the spring. It has a heated area, with all the necessary facilities: bathrooms, showers, restaurant and so on, and a part of ice, with ice domes – double rooms made of ice, where guests will sleep on a real mattress, but at a temperature around -5 °C. They will give you a polar expedition sleeping bag and everything you need to sleep warm and comfortably.

Once there you will join a guided tour of the ice hotel , which boasts hundreds of ice sculptures . You will learn more about how it is built and you can also enjoy a drink in the ice bar . Your experience staying at Tromsø Ice Domes also includes a snowshoe hike (special winter clothing and all necessary gear for the activities are provided), which will allow you to reach some remote areas in the surroundings, where you can admire the Northern Lights sitting around a bonfire.

Also included will be a delicious 3-course dinner , featuring regional cuisine, served in an atmospheric and warm restaurant. In the morning, after a hearty breakfast , you can enjoy a 1.5-hour dog sledding tour through the beautiful snow-covered valleys. It will be a truly unforgettable experience! Finally, enjoy a delicious traditional meal around an open fire in a traditional Sami tent , and relax a little longer before returning to Tromsø.

Staying in one of the few rooms of this ice masterpiece will be the highlight of your once-in-a-lifetime winter adventure . You will only be able to live this experience in winter, as it is only open from the beginning of December to the end of March . But you’ll have to be lucky enough to find availability! In fact, the ice hotel has only a few rooms, meaning you will share this 600 m² ice hotel with only a limited amount of other guests. This makes it the ideal place to celebrate a special occasion with your loved one in a setting of your dreams. But it will be essential to book early!

Otherwise, if you just want to take a look at the famous Tromsø Ice Domes and enjoy the views of the beautiful surrounding natural landscape, you may just want to opt for a day tour to the Tromsø Ice Domes which will allow you to see the iconic ice hotel , enjoy a drink at the ice bar and visit a reindeer farm in the fabulous Tamok Valley . Here you can meet reindeer up close, and relax with hot drinks and a delicious traditional stew before returning to Tromsø.

THE ARCTIC CATHEDRAL

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is an impressive modern-style church built in 1965 . You can’t miss it, as it is clearly visible from Tromsø harbor, from the promenade that runs alongside Tromsøysundet – the strait on which the island of Tromsøya stands, where Tromsø is situated – and by the hillocks that drape the old town.

With its iconic shape, Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral is one of the first things that catches the eye of those arriving, no matter if from the sea or the land, as it overlooks the strait, but also the main road to the city center. This makes it one of its best known landmarks, it is featured on all postcards and brochures, and is easily recognizable by its Christmas tree shape or, as architecture books say, shaped like an iceberg or lavvu , the traditional tent of the Sami people.

The church is located on the Tromsdalen side, so to get there from the city center you will have to cross the iconic Bruvegen Bridge , the bridge that crosses the strait and connects Tromsø to the mainland. You can walk around it, as there is a comfortable sidewalk separate from the roadway. It is just over a kilometer long and offers a nice view over the strait and the port of Tromsø. In winter it could be windy and uncomfortable, but it’s definitely worth the effort.

Tromsø’s Arctic Cathedral – whose name Ishavskatedralen literally means “The Cathedral of the Arctic Sea” – was designed by Jan Inge Hovig , who was one of Norway’s foremost architects, and maintains the classic architectural elements of Norwegian long churches, innovated through the massive use of concrete, glass, steel and aluminum. On the eastern side – that is, the one behind the church – features a huge glass mosaic . The interiors are minimal, and the only notable elements are the organ and the chandeliers.

The church belongs to the Church of Norway and can be visited for a fee (55 NOK). However, you can take a peek through the windows, which is more than enough. Occasionally, the church also hosts temporary exhibitions, while a nice thing to do is attend one of the organ and choir concerts . Notable are the Midnight Concerts and also the Christmas and New Year’s Eve concerts (tickets from 350-400 NOK).

Tromsø Old Town (Free Self-Guided Walking Tour Itinerary)

Spread over a handful of gentle terraced hillocks interspersed with a maze of steep streets, Tromsø’s city center is one of Norway’s prettiest. Its beautiful houses with their façades in light pastel shades, climb the hills, gaining an enviable view of the strait and the high peaks of Tromsdalstinden , the mountain that rises in front of the town.

Its compact city center is easily explored on foot, and you can get from one end to the other in less than half an hour. The real heart of Tromsø is its old town , nestled around the harbor. Here modern architecture coexists with fabulous wooden houses that were once the home of merchants, hunters and fishermen.

These lands, once populated mostly by the Sami – the people of Lapland – were a major Arctic trade center until the early 1900s. Tromsø merchants traded from Russia’s Arctic ports to France, and the surrounding region bordered directly on Russia and Karelia . In the early 1900s, Tromsø was a quiet town with a bustling trading port . From here originated some of the most important Arctic expeditions , and it was common for explorers – such as Umberto Nobile , Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen – to recruit their crews in the city.

Even today, Tromsø is a gateway to the Far North, towards the Svalbard Islands . Traces of its past are evident walking through the old town, which boasts one of the biggest concentration of historic wooden houses in Norway, mostly dating back to the period between the end of the 18th century and the beginning of the 20th century. You can see them walking along Storgata and Skippergata .

These two parallel boulevards are mitigated by the breeze blowing from the sea, and seem to pulsate with life radiating from the nearby harbor, which spews out waves of tourists twice a day. Just turn onto Kirkegata , the perpendicular boulevard that runs alongside the Tromsø Domkirke , to arrive at the Hurtigruten pier. Even today it is the small port that animates the city: the Hurtigruten coastal express ships calls the port of Tromsø twice a day, one along the northbound route and the other along the southbound one.

Don’t miss its arrival in port! Even today as in the past – when it mainly transported mail and goods – the Hurtigruten ships as they approach the port of Tromsø sound the siren several times to greet the city and warn travelers. Until the mid-1900s, when the regions of Northern Norway were still quite remote and difficult to reach, Hurtigruten ships were the fastest, if not the only, way to travel from port to port and connect the cities of the south with the far north.

This has been reflected in recent history and local culture , making Tromsø closer and more integrated to the rest of Norway, and marking the rhythms of local life. Especially in summer, the city comes alive when ships dock in port: cruises, vessels and fishing boats loaded with travelers and goods.

But Tromsø is not only a bustling crossroads of people traveling to the far north, but also the largest town in the vast surrounding region , which is mostly made up of villages, small towns and remote rural areas. Therefore, especially on weekends, Tromsø is teeming with locals from all over the surrounding region. It is not uncommon for locals to drive over 2-300km to get here from their villages.

In fact, Tromsø is the largest administrative center in Northern Norway , it has the most important airport, but it is also full of good and well-stocked shops of all kinds, trendy restaurants and bars, shopping centers and large supermarkets. So, people come here to shop and have fun!

Storgata is the main street of Tromsø: a straight avenue that from the Tromsø Bridge leads to the modern town south of the old town, near the Polaria aquarium. It is lined with shops, cafes, bars and restaurants. It is really nice to walk here, whatever the season. Along Storgata – or a short walk from it – you will find most of Tromsø’s attractions and most of its historic buildings.

Check out the Verdensteatret , the fabulous cinema recognizable by the “Kinematograf” sign, which was built in 1915 and is Northern Europe’s oldest cinema still in use. Its interiors boast some large wall paintings, made by the local artist Sverre Mack in 1921, which picture scenes from Norwegian folklore and fairy tales. Most foreign films are screened in their original language, mostly in English with Norwegian subtitles.

Tromsø is also famous for its Tromsø International Film Festival , held every year in mid-January: open air events, screenings and movie nights are held scattered in the squares around Storgata , and especially around the Kulturhuset Tromsø – which usually hosts exhibitions, plays and concerts – and at the large and modern Aurora Fokus Cinema , located in the large glass building which also houses the Tromsø Town Hall (Tromsø Rådhus) . If you visit Tromsø on festival days, book your hotel well in advance, as they tend to be fully booked and rates soar.

Right in front of the Tromsø Town Hall you will be able to see a small square with the King Haakon statue and a concert pavilion . The old wooden building behind the pavilion is the former town hall , dating from 1864, which now houses a small theater and exhibition space. The main attraction of the square, however, is the Pro-Cathedral of Our Lady (Vår Frue Domkirke i Tromsø) , dating from 1861. This beautifully preserved small neo-Gothic style church belongs to the Roman Catholic Church and is the northernmost Catholic cathedral in the world . The adjacent Episcopal House , dating from 1832, also hosted Pope John Paul II during his visit to Tromsø in 1989.

Especially in winter, make a stop at the small kiosk Raketten Bar & Pølse , on the corner of the square and Storgata , which serves reindeer hot dogs, mulled wine, hot chocolate and other good specialties (even some vegetarian options), and it’s a quite atmospheric place, with the best view on the square. The adjacent square is called Stortorget , and is Tromsø’s main meeting point. In the square you can easily recognize the statue of the Arctic Hunter (Fangstmonument) .

Tromsø City Library, Grønnegata and Sjøgata

Just behind the Tromsø Town Hall you can see another iconic building of the town: the Tromsø City Library and Archive , a masterpiece of contemporary Norwegian architecture. Its shape is reminiscent of sails inflated by the wind, while the glass walls make it transparent, luminous, creating a sense of continuity between the outside – the city – and the inside, which represents culture and knowledge.

You will not miss it, as with its large and bright windows it dominates the Grønnegata boulevard and the picturesque Cora Sandels Gate street, which leads to the harbor and the lively Sjøgata area. Here is one of the best waterfront promenades, which is the main starting point for tours and activities, as well as some of the best hotels in the town , such as the Scandic Ishavshotel , the Clarion Collection Hotel With , the Radisson Blu Hotel Tromsø and the Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora , all with fabulous views.

Troll Museum and Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum

Adjacent to the hotels is the cruise port and the Hurtigruten terminal , as well as some of the best restaurants and bars in the city , some set in beautifully restored historic buildings with a contemporary twist. Just across the harbor are some small museums and galleries, such as the Troll Museum (adult tickets NOK 180, children NOK 100), where you can learn more about the famous Norwegian mythological creatures and traditional Norwegian fairytales. It could be an interesting stop if you are traveling with kids, otherwise just skip it.

Worthy of note is the nearby Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum (tickets from 80 NOK, admission may be free on some occasions), which houses an interesting – albeit small – collection of local modern and contemporary art, as well as some interesting temporary exhibitions. Opposite the Nordnorsk Kunstmuseum you can see the statue of the famous polar explorer Roald Amundsen , and right across the street is the famous Magic Ice Bar Tromsø , serving frozen cocktails in ice glasses, in a venue full of ice sculptures.

Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø Domkirke)

Returning to Storgata you will see the main attraction of the old town, the beautiful Tromsø Cathedral (Tromsø Domkirke) , completed in 1861 and not to be confused with the modern Arctic Cathedral. This beautiful yellow, wooden Lutheran cathedral of the Church of Norway was built in a long church format and in the Gothic Revival style by the architect Christian Heinrich Grosch , one of the most prominent Norwegian architects of the 19th century. It is considered the northernmost Protestant cathedral in the world , as well as one of Norway’s biggest wooden churches. If you find it open (go there in the late morning – early afternoon) take a look at its beautiful wooden interiors. Occasionally, atmospheric organ concerts are also held.

Ølhallen – the oldest pub in Tromsø – and the Old Mack Brewery

From the Domkirke continue south on Storgata until you reach the Polaria aquarium. Along the way you will see the Ølhallen , the oldest pub in Tromsø , set in a beautiful historic building from the late 19th century, set in a restored former industrial complex. This is a must for beer enthusiasts, as this was the northernmost brewery in the world until 2012 .

Mack Bryggeri (Mack Brewery) was founded in Tromsø in 1877 by Ludwig Markus Mack , and although the factory is now outside Tromsø, a stop at his pub and the nearby Kjeller 5 beer store is one of the nicest and most original things to do in Tromsø if you like beer. Starting from Kjeller 5, where you can find all the products that are available from Mack Brewery, as well as everything you need to try your hand at home brewing, from equipment to ingredients, and various souvenirs, such as personalized beer bottles, you can then go to Ølhallen , which is the real attraction.

Once simply called “The Hall” by locals, Mack’s brewpub Ølhallen opened in 1928 and, in addition to original and atmospheric interiors, boasts one of the largest tap selection in Europe serving Norwegian quality beer from 72 taps ! The beers (and alcohol in general in Norway) aren’t cheap, but it’s worth going there just to see it, as well as for some great pints! If you visit Tromsø over Christmas go for their Christmas Beer , which is hugely popular with the locals! Macks Ølbryggeri also organizes guided tours of the old brewery and some of the perfectly preserved rooms that were the offices and home of Ludwig Mack and his family, as well as interesting beer tastings.

Opposite Ølhallen you can also take a look at Blåst Glasshytta i Tromsø (Blown Glass Factory in Tromsø) an artisan shop that produces and sells blown glass art. Just beyond the brewery you will see a large historic building from the early 1900s surrounded by a lush garden, this is the Tromsø Center for Contemporary Art (Tromsø Kunstforening) , home of the Tromsø Art Association . It hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art, admission is free. Right across the street you will find one of Tromsø’s most famous attractions: the Polaria Aquarium .

POLARIA: THE ARCTIC AQUARIUM

One of the best things to do in Tromsø, especially for families, is a visit to Polaria , the world’s most northerly aquarium . This aquarium is quite different than any you would find anywhere else in the world, as it is primarily focused on Arctic wildlife , and is primarily designed to be an interactive, kid-friendly educational experience.

Polaria is a small aquarium located in a striking building of modern architecture, which represents represents ice floes that have been pressed up on land by the rough seas of the Arctic, and in a sense echoes the Arctic Cathedral, located on the opposite shore. Many of Polaria’s exhibits are focused on the Svalbard Islands and the far north of the Arctic. These remote, unspoiled and wild islands are in fact some of the northernmost and furthest lands in the Arctic, and Tromsø is somehow the base camp to get there.

The Svalbard Islands are a paradise for Arctic wildlife lovers, as they are home to polar bears, seals, several species of seabirds and several strange aquatic organisms, many of which you can see in Polaria . You will be able to see dozens of species of fish, molluscs, crustaceans and so on, and you can even touch them: there are special tactile tanks , where you can touch some fish and other marine organisms.

But the real draw is the seals : Polaria has a huge tank that is home to a family of seals. Through transparent underwater tunnels that pass inside the tank, bridges and windows you will be able to see the seals swimming one step away from you. Don’t miss the feeding of seals , which usually takes place at 10.30, 12.30 and 15.30. These animals are adorable, and I would have spent hours admiring them!

The visit to Polaria also includes watching a couple of documentary films on the mind-blowing Svalbard Islands (the documentary is titled Svalbard – Arctic Wilderness ) and on the queen of all Tromsø attractions: the Northern Lights .

Polaria in Tromsø is open daily from 10.00 to 16.00, tickets from 210 NOK (adults) or 105 NOK (children).

MS Polstjerna

Next to Polaria you will be able to see – protected by a glass building – the MS Polstjerna , Norway’s best-preserved sealing ship . Seal hunting has long been a major business in the Arctic, and a major source of livelihood for locals.

Between 1949 and 1981 this ship had 33 fishing seasons and harvested close to 100,000 seals from the West Ice and East Ice , the inhospitable areas of the Greenland Sea (to the west) and the White Sea and Barents Sea (to the east) covered by pack ice during winter time. The wonderfully preserved ship is a piece of local history, and is now a museum, owned by The Arctic University Museum of Norway .

The ship is currently only visible from the outside, as the museum is closed for maintenance. In front of MS Polstjerna you will be able to see a statue of Helmer Hanssen , who was Roald Amundsen’s assistant on three polar explorations and was one of the first five explorers to reach the South Pole.

Polarmuseet: The Polar Museum in Tromsø

The Polarmuseet , or Polar Museum of Tromsø , is one of the most interesting museums in the town, even if it is quite small. Located in an 1830s warehouse on the seafront, this museum tells the story of arctic hunters and explorers.

This is a historical museum , so be prepared to see lots of stuffed animals and gory hunting scenes . The Polarmuseet is in fact part of The Arctic University Museum of Norway , and its purpose is to faithfully depict how local life was in the past. Tromsø was the “Gateway to the Arctic” and this meant that it was the base not only for polar expeditions, but also for hunting trips.

The Polar Museum in Tromsø preserves and conveys stories related to this aspect of the history of Tromsø and the Arctic, through dioramas and permanent exhibitions deal with sealing and overwintering trapping. At one time these, along with whaling and reindeer hunting, were the main jobs for the locals. Experienced sailors and hunters had a hard life on Svalbard, facing the pitfalls of the Arctic winter and polar nights.

But in addition to this dark and gory side of local history, you can also learn more about the exciting polar explorations , the expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen and the airship expeditions of the Italian explorer Umberto Nobile .

The Polarmuseet is open every day from 11.00 to 17.00. Tickets cost NOK 100, free admission for children and students.

Other Interesting Museums in Tromsø

Just in front of the Polar Museum you will be able to see a mound with a large yellow wooden house surrounded by a garden, called Skansen . This is the only remnant of the bastion that defended the town in the Middle Ages, against raids from Russia and Karelia. The wooden house is the oldest in Tromsø , built in 1789. It used to be a customs office, but it was also an epidemic hospital. You can just have a look at it from the outside, and wander among the surrounding picturesque houses, then return to Storgata and take a look at the Perspektivet Museum .

Perspektivet Museum

This museum boasts a large collection of contemporary and modern art, as well as an extensive photographic collection, featuring over 500,000 images that trace the history of the city from the early 1900s to the present day. It also hosts interesting events and temporary art and photography exhibitions. The Perspektivet Museum is housed in what was once the home of local writer Cora Sandel (1880–1974), and on the first floor is a small section of her on her life and her literary works.

Tromsø Museum

To see another interesting museum in Tromsø you will have to take a long walk, or take a bus. The Tromsø Museum , also known as The Arctic University Museum of Norway , is located about 3km south of the city center. You can get there with Bus n. 40 from the city center, the bus stop is right in front of the museum.

The Tromsø Museum is the most comprehensive museum of local history and culture and boasts very interesting permanent exhibits on the Sámi and Kvan peoples and natural history. You will see lots of artifacts, fossils, traditional costumes, as well as interesting permanent exhibits on ecclesiastical art and the links between Norwegian merchants and the Hanseatic League. Other interesting exhibits are those on the Northern Lights and those on the impact of man on nature and Arctic wildlife. It also often hosts interesting temporary exhibitions. You can check the updated opening hours on the museum website.

Tickets start at NOK 100, free admission for students and children. Combo ticket Tromsø Museum and Polar Museum from 150 NOK.

Tromsø Arctic – Alpine Botanical Garden

Another interesting venue of the Arctic University Museum of Norway is the Tromsø Arctic – Alpine Botanical Garden , located 6 km north of the city center, reachable by Bus n. 20, 21 or 22 leading to the modern campus of the Arctic University of Norway.

The University of Tromsø is the world’s northernmost university, as well as the city’s largest workplace, and its botanical garden focused on Arctic and alpine plants from all over the northern hemisphere, has the reputation of being the world’s northernmost botanic garden . It’s not something tourists usually come to see, but if you’re going to be in Tromsø for a long time, well then you might want to check it out. Also nearby is a science museum for kids, the Northern Norwegian Science Center , which also features a planetarium (including Northern Lights, of course).

Fjellheisen – Tromsø Cable Car

One of the most popular things to do in Tromsø is to climb the Storsteinen , the mountain ledge (420m) overlooking Tromsdalen , the suburb of Tromsø located on the mainland, on the opposite side from the city center. The Fjellheisen , also called Tromsø Cable Car , starts from sea level to reach the top of the mountain, where the upper station called Fjellstua is located.

Just behind the upper station there is an observation deck that will allow you to enjoy a sensational view over the city. With a short walk you can also reach another nearby viewpoint, the Tromsø Utkikkspunkt (Tromsø Viewpoint) . The view sweeps across the city: you will be able to see the entire island of Tromsøya , its iconic bridge, the harbor, the city center, the small lake behind the city center – called Prestvannet – and the large island of Kvaløya in the background, one of the largest in Norway, with its rugged snow-capped peaks.

This is indisputably the best view in Tromsø and one of the most stunning in Norway. From here you can also continue on one of the various hiking trails . Some, like the one for Mt. Tromsdalstinden (1,238m) are quite strenuous and long (approx. 5 hours), others are quite easy and allow you to go just a little further than the viewpoint, which can get crowded. So you can enjoy the view in peace, and contemplate the wonderful surrounding landscape in silence. In summer (approx. 20 May to 20 July) it is the perfect place to see the Midnight Sun !

An easy path will allow you to walk back down, saving on the ticket or allowing you to make the most of the midnight sun, as in summer the Tromsø Cable Car closes at midnight. Just walk south (to the right from the upper station) and follow the path that goes down. The trail will bring you back near the lower station, it is an easy walk, doable in half an hour.

Alternatively, there is a shorter but much steeper path which starts near the upper station, following the path on the left. This involves a stairway of 1,203 steps built by experienced workers from Nepal, and for this reason nicknamed Sherpatrappa or Sherpa Steps . The climb takes about 1-1.5 hours and does not require any special skills. The Sherpatrappa trailhead (GPS: 69.64161, 18.99335 ) is a 10-minute walk from the Tromsø Cable Car lower station car park, or a 15-minute walk from the Arctic Cathedral.

The Tromsø Cable Car opened in 1961 and is still one of the main attractions of the city. It can get quite crowded in the summer, as it is very popular with cruise-ship passengers. The cable car ride takes about 4 minutes and the tickets are a bit expensive : return tickets from 320 NOK (adults, approx. 32 €), one way 210 NOK (adults, approx. 21 €). Discounted tickets available for families, children and students. Prices are subject to change, as well as timetables , you can check them on the official website . Tickets can be purchased online or on site. It is not advisable to go with strollers, even if allowed. Parking at the lower station is subject to charges (from NOK 25 per hour).

Winter is the liveliest season in Tromsø! The typically subarctic climate is mitigated by its advantageous position, on an island nestled in the middle of a strait and surrounded by fjords and mountains. This is why in winter Tromsø is usually covered by a blanket of snow and temperatures are a few degrees below zero, but winter is less severe than inland , where temperatures frequently drop below -20 °C.

In winter, the days get shorter and shorter, so be prepared for little or no daylight hours. In Tromsø, the polar night season starts on November 27th and lasts until January 15th . During this period the sun never rises above the horizon.

However, contrary to what one might think, the polar night is not that dark. You will have enough light to visit the city and its surroundings , and have enough light to fully enjoy the main activities and tours, such as whale watching or fjord cruises . This is due to subtle twilight , which usually occurs from about 9 AM to 2 PM. This brightness, similar to what you can see just before sunrise, is enough to see and take amazing pictures!

In fact, the best months to visit Tromsø are in the heart of winter : between November and February you can experience all the best activities. Whales will flock to the fjords north of Tromsø and around Skjervøy and it’s the best season for a whale watching boat tour .

The Northern Lights will dance in the sky almost every night, which means it is a great time to chase the Northern Lights around Tromsø , while a thick blanket of snow will make the landscape enchanting and the atmosphere magical.

This is the ideal time for dog sledding and reindeer farm visits and you can also enjoy a nice reindeer sleigh ride , which is a must if you are traveling with the kids. It will also be the only time of year when you can experience the thrill of the snowmobile , go for a nice snowshoe hike through the arctic wilderness and enjoy the unparalleled views from the top of the Kvaløya mountains.

You will be able to try your hand at cross-country skiing around Breivikeidet and in the beautiful valleys south of Tromsø , you will be able to visit a camp of reindeer herders , meet these amazing animals up close and learn much more about the local culture and the history and traditions of the Sami people , the natives of Lapland. Finally, you can enjoy the peace and awe of a relaxed cruise through the beautiful fjords around Tromsø and enjoy an unforgettable stay at the famous Tromsø Ice Domes , Tromsø’s ice hotel .

In summer Tromsø wakes up from the torpor of the long winter and from April the days quickly get longer and longer. The snow melts, giving way to flowery meadows , green grasslands, waterfalls and streams in flood (and full of fish, especially salmon and trout ). The air smells of spring and optimism, the locals are happy for the end of the polar night and the arrival of milder temperatures .

This is undoubtedly the best time of year for a boat tour to the small and remote islands north of Tromsø . You will be able to skirt the large island of Kvaløya to reach the tiny islands of Gåsvær , Musvær and Risøya , a paradise for arctic lovers and bird watchers , as here you can spot eagles , cormorants , puffins , seals and porpoises . Sometimes even orcas and whales !

Locals love to go fishing, take long nature walks, swim in lakes and enjoy the best of outdoor activities : cycling, hiking, canoeing, kayaking and much more. The mountains around Tromsø, and especially those on the island of Kvaløya , are a popular destination for easy hikes . In short, summer is a great season to visit Tromsø! The big downside is that you won’t be able to experience the many amazing winter activities that make Tromsø a one-of-a-kind destination, but there is still a lot to do!

If you like to fish, this is a great season for a fishing boat trip in the fjords around Tromsø , also suitable for beginners, while families should not miss a day trip to a husky farm , to get the chance to take part in training and take a nice walk with the puppies .

From mid-May to the end of July you can see the Midnight Sun in Tromsø . The sun will never set from the 18th of May to the 25th of July, which means you will have plenty of time to enjoy the outdoor activities and stunning scenery of the fjords around Tromsø.

If you will be traveling to Tromsø in the summer, then you should definitely consider hiring a car and exploring the surroundings on your own : the Lyngen Alps , Senja and the beautiful wilderness on the border of Norway , Sweden and Finland . You could explore Reisa National Park , 270km southeast of Tromsø, or embark on an epic journey to the North Cape (Nordkapp) .

Just south you could visit the Vesterålen Islands (377km) or the stunning Lofoten Islands (420km). A road trip through the breathtaking landscapes of Northern Norway is the best thing you could do in Tromsø in the summer.

If you are short on time, or if you don’t want to rent a car and drive, you could opt for a comfortable 4×4 Arctic Roadtrip Guided Tour , which will allow you to see the most beautiful fjords and fishing villages around Tromsø , as well as have the chance to spot wildlife, such as moose , reindeer and eagles .

Tromsø itself can be easily visited in a couple of days, but most of the best things to do and activities are outside the town . No visit to Tromsø is complete without wandering around chasing the Northern Lights , experiencing the thrill of dogsledding or visiting a reindeer farm .

But above all, you can’t miss the breathtaking landscapes of the surrounding fjords , mountains and idyllic fishing villages scattered over the surrounding islands. Let’s go and discover some easy day trips from Tromsø , which will allow you to make the most of your trip to Northern Norway !

Kvaløya and Sommarøy

Kvaløya is the large island located just north of Tromsøya – the island on which Tromsø city center stands – and is a good place for an easy day trip. From the city center head to the airport and from there follow the Fv862 : a road bridge will take you to the suburb of Kvaløysletta . Continue to the small village of Kaldfjord , overlooking a peaceful fjord. Here you can take a look at the cute little Kvaløy Church , which is usually surrounded by a thick blanket of snow in winter.

Continue south on Fv858 to Hella , a small beach that is a popular fishing spot for catching cod and coalfish, boasting beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. Along the way, just before Hella, on the right you will see a rock with large petroglyphs dating back to the Stone Age. From here you can continue along the road, the landscape is a bit monotonous but still pleasant. After about 40 km you will have to turn left to take the road towards Sommarøy .

Connected by a scenic road bridge, the island of Sommarøy is the most beautiful around Tromsø. It is a small island surrounded by white sandy beaches and an emerald ocean. Its pleasant relaxed atmosphere, typical of the fishing villages of Northern Norway, and its convenient location, away from the street lights of Tromsø, make it a good destination for a pleasant stay , and maybe you can try to spot the Northern Lights . There is a great hotel on Sommarøy , the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø , which is actually hugely popular, so book early.

Returning back, take the Fv862 back to Nordfjordbotn and from there continue towards Ersfjordbotn . The road crosses a green valley interspersed with a few small lakes, and then arrives at the small fishing village of Ersfjordbotn, which has a nice fjord view, a small but pretty waterfall and a nice café, the Bryggejentene , which is enormously popular among both locals and tourists. From Ersfjordbotn you can drive back to Tromsø in half an hour. On the way out you could also skip Hella and drive straight to Sommarøy, which would save you around 20 km (30 minutes of driving).

To do this day trip you will need a car , or you can take Bus n. 420 from downtown Tromsø to Sommarøy, the bus stop is located near the Tromsø tourist office. You can find the bus timetable here .

Lyngen Alps and the Lyngenfjord

One of the best day trips you could take from Tromsø is to the Lyngen Alps , steep and rugged mountains located about 80 km east of Tromsø. It will take you about 2 hours of driving to get there and this involves a ferry crossing from Breidvik to Svensby . This trip is even more beautiful than the previous one: the Fv91 runs through a scenic valley until it comes out on a fjord surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

From Svensby you will skirt a narrow sound until arriving at Lyngseidet , which is the main starting point for exploring the Lyngen Alps . In the surroundings there are some hiking trails that allow you to climb the surrounding mountains and enjoy sublime views. In winter this is also a popular ski resort.

From Lyngseidet you could take a detour to the remote and picturesque fishing village of Koppangen , or take another ferry to Olderdalen , located on the opposite bank of Lyngenfjord , one of the most beautiful and famous fjords in Northern Norway. You will also be able to visit Aurora Spirit , the northernmost whiskey distillery in the world, which offers interesting guided tours and tastings.

It is highly recommended to stay overnight in the surrounding area to enjoy the fabulous views and peaceful atmosphere. Some good options are Solheim Fritidsgård , Aurora Fjord Cabins , Koppangen Brygger , Olderdalen Ski Camp , and Viking Cabins Solvik .

☞ You can find here a comprehensive guide to visiting the Lyngen Alps and Lyngenfjord .

From Tromsø to the North Cape and detours to Skjervoy and Reisa National Park

Things get serious in Olderdalen : you can choose whether to go north or south.

The road north takes you to the small town of Storslett (45 minutes drive from Olderdalen), from where you can explore the beautiful Reisa National Park . With a detour from the main road E6 you can reach the remote fishing village of Skjervoy (1.5 hours drive from Olderdalen), the road to Skjervoy is very scenic! Otherwise you could try to conquer the far north, heading towards Alta and from there to the North Cape (Nordkapp) ! From Tromsø to Alta it is 380 km (6 hours), while from Tromsø to the North Cape it is 620 km (9 hours).

From Olderdalen to Tromsø and detours to Skibotn, Finland and Sweden

If in Olderdalen you choose to go south along the E6 , you can return to Tromsø by a different and slightly longer route (180 km, 2.5 hours), which skirts the Lyngenfjord until you reach the Balsfjorden , the same fjord on which the island of Tromsø.

In Skibotn , a small village famous for being one of the best places to see the Northern Lights , you can continue along the E8 , a breathtaking scenic road that leads to Finland . From Skibotn to Kilpisjärvi , the first village after the Finnish border, it is 50 km (45 minutes drive).

Here you are in the heart of Lapland : Kilpisjärvi and the villages along the E8 to the town of Karesuvanto are among the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights . Just think that, if necessary, the tours from Tromsø even drive here to allow you to see the best Northern Lights! From Karesuvanto a bridge will allow you to visit the pretty village of Karesuando , in Sweden .

Staying here could be the highlight of your trip to the Far North – some great options are Arctic Land Adventure Glass Igloos , Tundrea Holiday Resort , Cahkal Hotel , and Saivaara Cottages . Booking well in advance is essential!

The remote, distant and small island of Skjervøy is constantly lashed by winds and storms, and until the early 1990s it was only accessible by boat. Now an undersea tunnel that reaches a depth of −92.5 meters and a scenic yet slender bridge connect it to the mainland, so you can get there by car.

Famous for being in one of the best whale watching areas in the world , overlooking the Kvænangenfjord and nestled in an idyllic landscape of mostly uninhabited islands and high glacier-covered mountains, Skjervøy is one of the ideal day trip destinations day trip from Tromsø. Actually, if you don’t go there with your car or a guided tour, it will be quite difficult to get there and back in the day.

There is an express boat from Tromsø to Skjervøy , only a few days a week. There are usually departures on:

• Tuesday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:00 – 20:05)
• Thursday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:00 – 20:05)
• Friday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 16:05 – 21:15)
• Sunday (Tromsø – Skjervøy – Tromsø: 14:30 – 19:50)

Timetables may be subject to frequent changes, but you can check the updated ones here . Yours is “Linje 3 Tromsø – Skjervøy” . The timetables are in Norwegian, so… let’s learn Norwegian: Mandag: Monday / Tirsdag: Tuesday / Onsdag: Wednesday / Torsdag: Thursday / Fredag: Friday / Lørdag: Saturday / Søndag: Sunday.

There are two main drawbacks to going to Skjervøy by express boat, and that’s why I wouldn’t recommend it. The first is that you will not be able to leave the boat , otherwise you will be stuck there. Once in Skjervøy, the boat leaves again for Tromsø in a few minutes. In the summer you might at least enjoy the ride, but in the winter it will be too dark. And this is not cheap , as the ticket costs 980 NOK (784 NOK if purchased in advance at the ticket machine). For just a few extra bucks you would go on an amazing whale watching tour!

An alternative could be to go by bus (several changes) or the express boat to Skjervøy and take the southbound Hurtigruten back from Skjervøy to Tromsø, which leaves from Skjervøy around 7.45pm. However, this alternative may be more expensive. For tickets and prices you should inquire at the ticket offices of Troms Fylkestrafikk , at the Tromsø Port Terminal in Samuel Arnesens gate, 5 .

Senja Island

The fabulous Senja Island can be easily reached from Tromsø and is the ideal destination for a few days road trip. In the summer it might be feasible to visit it in the day, but it would be a bit of a rush. Senja is in fact the second largest island in Norway , boasting an extraordinary variety of landscapes ranging from peaky mountains to enchanting valleys, as well as forests, scenic fjords, beautiful sandy beaches and quiet, tiny fishing villages.

Senja is a paradise for hikers and cyclists and is the ideal destination for a nice road trip , as its main attractions are mostly found along the Fv86 and Fv862 , which essentially allow you to take a complete tour of the island.

☞ Here you will find a comprehensive guide to visiting Senja Island .

I would not go with the express boats that goes from Tromsø to the village of Lysnes on the north east coast of Senja, because it is not meant for tourists, I mean, from there it would be difficult to get around and visit. The village itself consists of a couple of houses and a pier, local buses are infrequent and are not ideal for exploring the island. Instead, rent a car in Tromsø and drive there! You will enjoy breathtaking landscapes, and it will be well worth the effort!

Allow some time to visit it and to enjoy its beautiful views, at least 2 or 3 days . To get there you could drive from Tromsø to the village of Brensholmen , just south of Sommarøy on the island of Kvaløya. From here there is a comfortable car ferry that will take you to the village of Botnhamn – on Senja – in just 45 minutes. There are 2-4 ferries per day and extra runs in the summer. It is 70 km, about 2-2.5 hours. You can find the updated ferry timetables here , yours is line No. 181 Botnhamn – Brensholmen . Ferry ticket prices from NOK 264 per car. Pedestrians and bikes travel for free. Alternatively you could drive along the E8 to Nordkjosbotn and from there on the E6 to Olsborg , then the Fv855 will take you straight to Silsand on the island of Senja . It is 180 km, about 3 hours of driving on a nice road.

Getting to Tromsø by Plane

The most common way to get to Tromsø is by plane. Tromsø Airport is located on the island of Tromsøya (the same as the city center), approximately 5km north of the city center. Tromsø Airport is a modern, albeit small, international airport, with direct flight connections to major cities in Norway and some destinations in Europe.

Tromsø Airport has frequent flights to and from Oslo , as well as Bodø and Bergen . It also serves as the main base for flights to Northern Norway such as Alta , Hammerfest and Kirkenes . It is also one of the main bases for flying to Longyearbyen , in the Svalbard Islands .

Tromsø Airport is well connected to the city center by city buses no. 40 and 42 , which stop in front of the terminal. From the city center to the airport it takes 15-30 minutes. Tickets from 39 NOK (one way) when bought at the machine or via the Troms Billett app. If bought on board they are approx. 50% more expensive! A faster way is the direct shuttle bus called Airport Express Coach (Flybussen) , which take about 15 minutes from the city center to the airport or viceversa. Tickets from 125 NOK (one way). More info on the official website .

If you need a taxi or a private transfer , comfortable and convenient especially for those traveling with heavy luggage or for families, you could book it in advance here , at an affordable price!

Alternatively you could rent a car at Tromsø Airport . There are few car rental desks, it is advisable to book in advance online on reputable sites , such as Rentalcars.com (owned by Booking.com ) or Discovercars.com (one of the best-rated in the world). These offer the best rates in real-time, top-notch insurance, guaranteed booking and free cancellation.

Getting to Tromsø by Bus

The main bus routes to Tromsø are from Narvik , Alta or Rovaniemi , depending on whether you are from Central Norway or Finland . From Narvik the Bus n. 100 goes to Tromsø in approx. 4 hours. Tickets from 390 NOK (one way). If purchased on board, the ticket price starts from 488 NOK.

If you are coming from Bodø you should take a bus to Narvik (6.5 hours, from 494 NOK, bus line 100), via Fauske and with a change in Innhavet . You can check prices and timetables on Reisnordland .

Bodø is the terminus of the scenic Nordland Railway which runs from Trondheim for 729km through dramatic landscapes, passing through Fauske and arriving in Bodø . From Trondheim there are trains to and from Oslo .

Those coming from Sweden could arrive in Narvik with the Arctic Circle Train , a night train that leaves Stockholm in the evening and arrives in Narvik the following day, crossing the breathtaking landscapes of Swedish Lapland and passing through the towns of Kiruna and Abisko .

There are direct express buses from Tromsø to Rovaniemi and viceversa, which depart from Tromsø Bus Station and arrive in Rovaniemi in 10 hours (tickets from 112 €), via Skibotn , Kilpisjärvi and Karesuvanto . Info and tickets on Eskelisen Lapin Linjat .

There are direct buses between Tromsø and Alta , which depart from Tromsø Bus Station and arrive in Alta in 6.5 hours (tickets from 468 NOK, bus line 150), via Lyngen and Storslett . Info about Troms Fylkestrafikk .

In winter (December to March) there are also daily winter bus routes operated by The Arctic Route , which connect Narvik , Tromsø , Alta , Rovaniemi and many other tourist destinations. These buses are primarily intended for tourists, as they connect major hotels and tourist attractions in Northern Norway, Northern Finland and Northern Sweden. Journey times are similar (sometimes longer) than public buses. The Arctic Route has an info and reservations desk at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Tromsø .

Getting to Tromsø by ship

Ships of the Hurtigruten Coastal Express travel from Bergen to Kirkenes connecting major ports along the Norwegian coast, including Tromsø . Hurtigruten ships call the port of Tromsø daily, at 2.15pm on the northbound route and at 11.45pm on the southbound route . You can travel port-to-port by booking a ticket in advance on the Hurtigruten website.

Exactly the same route, with the same departure and arrival times, is operated by Havila Kystruten , a competitor of Hurtigruten who operates large and modern eco-friendly ships. Havila’s ships also allow port-to-port travel by booking a ticket on their website .

Tromsø is also a popular stop for cruise ships , both those operated by Hurtigruten and those of other companies. There are two cruise terminals , one in the city center (mainly operated by Hurtigruten) and the other – the Breivika Cruise Port – located north of the city center, near the University and the Botanical Garden, connected to the city center by the city bus n. 42.

Getting to Tromsø by Car

If you are planning an incredible road trip, you could easily reach Tromsø by the E8 road which connects the Finnish city of Turku to Tromsø , passing through Karesuvanto , Kilpisjärvi and Nordkjosbotn .

In Nordkjosbotn there is an intersection with the E6 road which connects Tromsø to Southern Norway , passing through Narvik , Fauske , Mo i Rana , Trondheim , Lillehammer and Oslo , and continuing to Sweden , Gothenburg and Malmö . The E6 road has connections with Denmark, Germany and allows you to get even to Rome!

From Nordkjosbotn the E6 continues north towards Skibotn , Alta , Lakselv , Karasjok and Kirkenes , where there is the border between Norway and Russia . What a wonderful trip!

Tromsø is located over 350km above the Arctic Circle , so you can experience polar nights and the midnight sun , depending on the season. If you want to see the midnight sun, or chase the Northern Lights, this calendar is sure to come in handy, as you can easily get an idea of ​​the sunrise and sunset times in Tromsø , month by month.

TROMSØ IN JANUARY

01/01: The sun is always down 14/01: Polar Nights Season Ends 15/01: 11:19 – 12:28

TROMSØ IN FEBRUARY

01/02: 09:20 – 14:34 15/02: 08:12 – 15:44

TROMSØ IN MARCH

01/03: 07:07 – 16:45 15/03: 06:03 – 17:42

TROMSØ IN APRIL

01/04: 05:45 – 19:50 15/04: 04:39 – 20:49

TROMSØ IN MAY

01/05: 03:16 – 22:06 15/05: 01:32 – 23:48

18/05: Midnight Sun Season Begins

TROMSØ IN JUNE

01/06: The sun is up all day 15/06: The sun is up all day

TROMSØ IN JULY

01/07: The sun is up all day 15/07: The sun is up all day

25/07: Midnight Sun Season Ends

TROMSØ IN AUGUST

01/08: 02:26 – 23:14 15/08: 03:48 – 21:48

TROMSØ IN SEPTEMBER

01/09: 05:03 – 20:24 15/09: 05:59 – 19:19

TROMSØ IN OCTOBER

01/10: 07:01 – 18:06 15/10: 07:57 – 17:02

TROMSØ IN NOVEMBER

01/11: 08:13 – 14:42 15/11: 09:28 – 13:29

27/11: Polar Nights Season Begins

TROMSØ IN DECEMBER

01/12: The sun is always down 15/12: The sun is always down

Can you see the Northern Lights in Tromsø on your own?

You may not want to book a specialized tour to see the Northern Lights and try your luck on your own. Well, then you will need a car , so that you can move to certain areas where you will have a better chance of seeing a fabulous Aurora Borealis.

You could rent a car and drive to the remote island of Sommarøy , approx. 60km west of Tromsø, where there is a quaint fishing village and a fabulous place to stay overnight, the Sommarøy Arctic Hotel Tromsø . In December it could be hugely popular, so book early!

Car rental prices in Tromsø in the peak season could be around NOK 900 per day if you book well in advance, so if you are a couple or a family it could be convenient. You can check prices and availability in real time on Rentalcars or Discovercars , in order to get the best rates.

Another fabulous place to stay overnight and spot the Northern Lights on the nearby island of Kvaløya is the Yggdrasil Farmhotel Retreat & Spa , which offers great rooms on a farm with fjord views , a sauna and a nice outdoor hot tub . Or the Buvik Sea Lodge , another good guesthouse located a short distance from the previous one.

The best areas – the ones where guided tours often go – are, however, a few hours’ drive from Tromsø, hidden among the mountains and fjords of the hinterland. You will have to drive towards the Lyngen Alps or towards Skibotn (120 km from Tromsø). In the area you could stay at the wonderful North Experience Basecamp . For an unparalleled adventure you could cross the Finnish border , reach the fabulous Lapland village of Kilpisjärvi (160 km from Tromsø) and stay at Arctic Land Adventure Glass Igloos or Tundrea Holiday Resort .

If you don’t want to rent a car, and just want to try to spot the Northern Lights in Tromsø , then some decent places could be the banks of Prestvannet , the small lake located behind the city center, reachable by car or by bus no. 40 and a short walk from the bus stop (about 10 minutes walk). Otherwise, you could go to the Tromsø Cable Car viewpoint, but keep in mind that it closes at 10pm, and you wish you could attempt to chase the Northern Lights until past midnight. Another place could be Telegrafbukta Beach , the public park located on the southern coast of the island, accessible for free and reachable in about 1 hour walk from the city center.

However, unless you are traveling on an extremely tight budget, I would not recommend going on your own, especially if you are staying in Tromsø for just a few days, as you risk not seeing them . You should trust the expert local guides, who have the tools, experience and know-how to enable you to comfortably see the BEST Northern Lights . This is a once in a lifetime trip – so you should try to enjoy it to the fullest! If you still don’t know which tour to choose, this is one of the best and the price is quite affordable .

What are the Best Festivals and Events in Tromsø?

Tromsø is a lively town , much more than you might imagine. In Norway people love music, it is no coincidence that this is one of the homelands of European rock, metal and electronic music. Norwegians also love art, cinema and books, this is particularly evident in the eclectic Tromsø , which is famous for being “The City of Festivals” due to its many musical and cultural events.

Below you will find a list of the best (and most popular) Tromsø festivals and events. It might be nice to visit Tromsø during a festival to discover the more modern, sophisticated and vibrant side of the city. But be warned, Tromsø hotels are usually fully booked during festivals, and rates tend to soar. Suffice it to say, each event attracts over 60-70,000 visitors from all over the world! Quite a lot for a town that has a population of just over 60,000.

Tromsø International Film Festival

One of the most interesting film festivals in Europe, the Tromsø International Film Festival , is held annually on the third week of January in Tromsø, especially around the Erling Bangsunds Plass (outdoor cinema) and in some of the city’s cinemas and theaters. Unlike the more famous festivals, the Tromsø International Film Festival focuses mainly on little-known high-quality films, independent and non-mainstream works.

When: around the third week of January. Info on the official website .

SMAK Nordnorsk Matfestival (Northern Norwegian Food Festival)

SMAK Food Festival is one of my favorite events in Tromsø. It is usually held in mid-September and is a good opportunity to learn more about local food, cooking traditions and the freshest local ingredients: fish, meat, herbs and vegetables. You’ll find over 80 stands, as well as local restaurants and producers offering tastings at affordable prices.

When: around mid-September. Info on the official website . Bukta Festival

One of Norway’s most popular rock festivals is held annually on Telegrafbukta Beach , south of the city center. Dozens of local and international artists play for three days under the midnight sun. Don’t expect mainstream artists, the line-up here is pretty indie-rock.

When: around the end of July. Info on the official website .

One of the most important electronic music festivals is Insomnia , which is held around the city at the end of October. It usually lasts 3 days and boasts an interesting selection of the best Scandinavian electronic music artists and producers.

When: around the end of October. Info on the official website .

Nordlysfestivalen – Tromsø Northern Lights Festival

Classical music lovers will enjoy the Northern Lights Festival , 10 days dedicated to the best of Northern European and Scandinavian classical music, including vocal concerts, choirs and classical-electronic music. The line-up is usually sophisticated and never predictable.

When: from the last week of January to the first of February. Info on the official website .

This festival is held in the heart of Tromsø, right in Stortorget square, usually lasts a couple of days and hosts the best of Norwegian and Scandinavian pop and rock music. For example, here I had the opportunity to attend several times the performances of Röyksopp, probably the most famous electronic music duo from Tromsø.

When: around the end of August. Info on the official website .

Tromsø JazzFestival

This festival usually lasts 4 days and is held throughout the city, hosting some of the best jazz artists mainly from Scandinavia, but also from the rest of the world.

When: around early or mid-August. Info on the official website .

Midnight Sun Marathon

The most important marathon competition in Norway is held annually in Tromsø in mid-June. If you are a runner, then you might take the opportunity to run the marathon or half marathon under the midnight sun, in the idyllic landscape around Tromsø. Think about it!

When: around mid-June. Info on the official website .

Tromsø WINTER TRAVEL GUIDE

All You Need To Know Before Your Winter Trip To Tromsø, Norway

Are you planning a winter trip to Tromsø, wondering what are the best places to visit, what kind of activities you should do, and where to stay and eat? 

Discover all you need to know about visiting Tromsø in winter (November – March) with this practical and in-depth guide!

Tromsø, home to around 70,000 people, stands as the largest city in northern Norway. Situated approximately 350 kilometers north of the Arctic Circle, its prime position within the auroral oval, coupled with convenient direct flights to Norway’s capital, has propelled Tromsø to become one of the top winter tourist destinations. 

However, planning a winter trip to Tromsø can quickly become overwhelming. Maybe you’re wondering about questions like these as you contemplate your winter adventure in Tromsø:

❓How  get to Tromsø?

❓When is the best time to see the northern lights?

❓How cold is it going to be?

❓Is it going to be dark all the time?

❓Should I rent a car?

❓  Is it to dangerous to drive in Tromso in winter?

ABOUT US AND TROMSØ

Ivar and I lived in Tromsø for six months in 2022 while I was working for a travel agency. My job was to assist people in planning their vacations in Tromsø and Lofoten, which I thoroughly enjoyed, even though I no longer reside in Tromsø.

In this Tromsø Travel Guide, I will provide tips for the finest activities, accommodations, and restaurants, hoping it will assist you in planning the ultimate winter trip to Tromsø!

TROMSØ WINTER tRAVEL GUIDE

We’ve packed this article with a wealth of information about visiting Tromsø in winter. To help you navigate more easily, here are some content shortcuts that allow you to jump to the sections of the article that interest you most.

• When to travel to Tromsø
• How cold is it in Tromsø in winter?
• How is the weather like in Tromsø?
• How to get to Tromsø
• Getting to Tromso city from the Airport
• Getting around Tromsø by public bus
• Renting a car in Tromsø
• Parking in Tromsø
• Winter Driving in Tromsø
• What to do in Tromsø
• How to see the northern lights
• Where to stay in Tromsø
• Where to eat in Tromsø
• What to pack for winter in Tromsø
• Tourist map of Tromsø

1. WHEN TO TRAVEL TO TROMSØ IN WINTER

There is no best time to visit Tromsø. The ideal time for visit  depends very much on what you want to see and do. 

• If your main goal is to see the  northern lights , then you need to travel between the beginning of   September and the end of March.
• If you want to go  whale watching , you must come to Tromsø   between the beginning of November and the end of January.
• And if you want to do  dog sledding ,  reindeer feeding,   or snowmobiling , then you need to arrive when there is snow in Tromsø, meaning from the beginning of November to the end of March.

2. HOW COLD IS IT IN TROMSO IN WINTER?

The unique ocean climate in tromsø.

Tr omsø has a climate that’s a bit unique.  Due to its position at at 69.4 degrees north, one might expect it to be super cold all the time, especially in winter. But  it’s not as cold as you might think, and here’s why:

The Gulf Stream, a warm ocean current originating in the Gulf of Mexico and flowing northeastward into the North Atlantic Ocean, has a significant impact on the climate along the coast of Norway. 

THE WARMING EFFECT OF THE GULF STREAM

T he Gulf Stream carries warm waters from the tropics towards the North Atlantic. As it approaches the coast of Norway, it releases heat into the atmosphere, raising local temperatures. 

This warming effect is particularly pronounced during the winter months. Consequently, coastal areas of Norway, including areas like Lofoten or Tromsø, experience milder winters compared to other locations at similar latitudes.

So, while you’ll definitely need a warm coat and snow boots, the winter temperatures in Tromsø are not as extreme as you might imagine.  

WINTER TEMPERATURES IN TROMSØ

The daily average temperature in Tromsø during winter typically ranges from -5°C to 0°C (23°F to 32°F). 

On the coldest nights of the year, temperatures can drop to -14°C  (7°F). The lowest recorded temperature in Tromsø was -20°C (-4°F), documented in both February 1985 and January 1987.

IT IS MUCH COLDER FURTHER INLAND

I n contrast, the inland areas, which are farther from the moderating effects of the ocean, experience a more continental climate.

Finnmarksvidda, Norway’s largest mountain plateau stretching from Alta in the west to the Varanger Peninsula in the east, experiences the coldest winters on the mainland. 

The lowest temperature ever recorded in Norway was -51.4 degrees Celsius (-60.5 degrees Fahrenheit), and this extreme cold was observed in the town of Karasjok, situated in the eastern part of the Finnmarksvidda plateau.

Are you looking for activities in Lofoten, Tromsø, Oslo or Alta?

3. how is the weather like in tromsø in winter, weather in tromso in september.

I n September, darkness returns to Tromsø after a long summer of continuous daylight. As the nights grow darker, the northern lights become visible once more. In fact, the northern lights are active year-round, but they are only visible when the sky is dark, which is why the northern lights season lasts from the end of August until mid-April when the sky becomes too bright again.

September brings vibrant autumn colors to Tromsø, and in the mountains, you can experience the season’s first snowfall.

Visiting Tromsø in September is ideal for those who want to enjoy autumn colors and witness the northern lights without enduring extreme cold.  

I t’s a great month for hiking , and if you have the appropriate gear, camping is still an option.

However, aside from northern lights tours and hiking, there aren’t many organized activities available. The reindeer are still grazing in the mountains, so the reindeer farm opens at the beginning of November. The same goes for snow activities like snowmobiling or dog sledding. Nonetheless, you can visit a dog kennel and spend time with the dogs or take them for a walk!

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN OCTOBER

In October, the nights grow longer, and you can sense that winter is just around the corner.

The landscape still boasts its autumn colors, although it’s primarily the bushes adorned in shades of orange and red, as the leaves tend to be swept away from the small Arctic birches during the initial autumn storms.

October often sees the mountain peaks lightly dusted with fresh snow , creating a picturesque contrast with the colorful landscape.

The weather in October tends to be more prone to rain and storms compared to September, but in the unpredictable Arctic climate, you never know what the weather will be like.

Regarding organized activities, October is quite similar to September. You can chase the northern lights, hike in the mountains, and explore the Tromsø surroundings on fjord or minibus tours. 

However, it’s still early in the season for organized winter activities like dog sledding, visiting reindeer farms, or going on snowmobile safaris.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN NOVEMBER

November marks the onset of the winter season in Tromsø. The vibrant autumn colors have faded, and the snow cover becomes more persistent. Daylight diminishes significantly as the polar night season approaches. 

On November 26, the sun makes its final appearance above the horizon , remaining below it until approximately January 20. 

During November, just before the polar night, you can witness extended sunrises that transition into twilight, painting the sky with enchanting hues of orange, pink, and blue.

However, November can also bring cloudy, rainy days, resulting in a mostly gray and dark atmosphere.

I n November, herrings begin their migration into the fjords around Tromsø, attracting whales in their wake. This marks the start of whale-watching tours, which run from early November until late January when the herrings leave.

Reindeer herders gather their herds and lead them to the separation enclosure in November, where each family or winter group selects their reindeer for the winter pasture. 

The Tromsø Arctic Reindeer farm opens its doors to visitors at the start of November, offering opportunities to feed and interact with the reindeer until early April when they return to the mountain pastures.

Dog sledding adventures around Tromsø also kick off in early November when there’s usually enough snow. In case of a snow shortage, as experienced in November last year, dog sledding on wheeled carts remains an option, or you can visit a dog kennel. These dedicated dogs require care and attention year-round, so it’s highly appreciated if you don’t cancel your tour due to a lack of snow.

It’s still early in the season for snowmobile tours and visits to the Ice Hotel in Tamok Valley, which typically start in early December.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN DECEMBER

D ecember in Tromsø is the darkest month, but don’t expect complete darkness around the clock. While the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon, there are still a few hours of twilight-like light, casting beautiful pastel colors.

The city also becomes adorned with festive lights and Christmas decorations , creating a joyful atmosphere. December, especially the Christmas and New Year’s period, is a peak season in Tromsø. Well, who wouldn’t want to spend their Christmas on a whale-watching safari or witnessing the northern lights instead of noisy fireworks? Make sure to book your accommodations, activities, and restaurants well in advance.

Speaking of eating out, most shops and restaurants are closed from December 24th to 26th. Be prepared by purchasing food in advance and perhaps cooking your own meals. 

However, it’s a good idea to check with individual restaurants to see if they’re open. If you plan to dine out on New Year’s Eve, make reservations several months ahead.

December truly marks the peak of the winter season in Tromsø, with a variety of winter activities like whale watching, dog sledding, reindeer sledding, snowmobile safaris, and the ice hotel all on the menu.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN JANUARY

The polar night extends almost until the end of January, but once Christmas is over, you can sense a change in the locals’ mood as they eagerly await the return of the sun. 

I n Tromsø, the polar night spans from November 27th to January 15th. However, due to the city’s proximity to high mountain ranges, the darkness actually sets in around November 21st and lingers until approximately January 21st.

A Tromsø tradition is to enjoy  doughnuts  on January 21st, now known as Solboller (“sunshine buns”) in recent years. 

The city’s bakeries work through the night, ensuring that all shops, offices, schools, and nurseries are filled with the scent of these delightful pastries. T housands gather at various points on Tromsøya , armed with warm clothing, thermos flasks of cocoa, and sun buns, eagerly anticipating the first rays of sunshine in two months.

Weather-wise, January brings even colder temperatures and more snowfall compared to December, so be prepared to dress warmly. 

Generally, the weather becomes more stable, and the snow cover more consistent after Christmas.

Throughout January, all winter activities are available, although towards the end of the month, the migration of whales out of Tromsø fjords may begin. If you’re keen on seeing the whales, it’s advisable not to wait until the last week of January.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN FEBRUARY

Tromsø comes back to life in February as the daylight hours begin to increase. With each passing day, you’ll have more time to enjoy winter activities and explore the city’s attractions in the daylight, while the nights remain ideal for hunting the northern lights.

February blankets the area with plenty of snow, making it an excellent time for skiing, snowshoeing, or dog sledding adventures.

However, it’s worth noting that the whale safaris come to a halt at the end of January as the whales begin their migration southward. While you might still have the occasional chance to spot a whale from the shore or on a fjord cruise, the odds are lower compared to the prime whale-watching period from November to January.

The other winter activities are in full swing in February and March, which are considered the high season in Tromsø. So, be sure to book your activities and accommodations well in advance to secure your spot.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN MARCH

While January and the beginning of February are perfect months for photographers who appreciate the pastel hues of the long-lasting dawns and twilights, the second half of February and March are excellent for regular visitors who relish longer daylight hours they can fill with various activities.

March typically brings snowy and relatively stable weather conditions , providing ample daylight for exploration and offering breathtaking northern lights displays. 

According to science, around the autumn and spring equinoxes, there is an uptick in solar activity, leading to spectacular northern lights shows.

WEATHER IN TROMSO IN APRIL

I n April, the days start getting significantly longer than the nights , which is excellent news for skiing enthusiasts. They can easily enjoy a skiing trip even after finishing work at 5 pm.

 However, it’s not the best time for northern lights enthusiasts as the northern lights season comes to an end in early April.  

Most tour providers wrap up their tours by the end of March because April becomes too bright, requiring tours to start later at night. Nevertheless, you can still find some providers organizing tours in early April.

Early April is an ideal time to visit if you want to avoid crowds. Standard winter activities like reindeer sledding or dog sledding typically operate during the first week of April before closing for the season.

I n mid to late April, the snow at sea level might begin to melt , marking the start of spring in Tromsø. However, this isn’t the most pleasant time to visit. 

This period often brings very changeable weather with snowfall followed by melting, and it repeats. While lower latitudes in Norway are already witnessing the first signs of green and blossoming flowers, Tromsø remains gray, brown, and wet.

OUR TIP:  In our experience,  we would skip traveling to Tromsø in late April and May  (unless you are an avid skier). September and October are still great for hiking, and you can see the northern lights. However, it is too early in the season for other activities like dog sledding, reindeer feeding, snowmobile driving, visiting an ice hotel or whale watching. 

4. HOW TO GET TO TROMSØ

Getting to tromsø by plane.

If you want to get to Tromsø, flying is the easiest and fastest way. The direct flight between Oslo and Tromsø takes only two hours, compared to ca 22 hours of driving.

Since Tromsø is the biggest city in northern Norway, there are plenty of direct all-year-round flights from other Norwegian cities and seasonal direct flights from some European cities. 

For example, Lufthansa has a direct flight to Tromsø from Frankfurt or Finnair from Helsinki. You can check the direct flights to Tromsø Airport here. 

Most international travelers will fly into Oslo or Bergen and continue with a domestic flight to Tromsø. SAS ,  Widerøe , and  Norwegian   operate on domestic routes, with Widerøe being a bit more pricey since it serves mainly small local airports.

SLEEPING IN TROMSØ AIRPORT 😴

For those who, like me, were questioning whether this was possible – yes it is!!! 😀 I slept there the night of the December 20-21, 2023. The airport is NOT closed overnight (landside) and there is space to sleep on the ground floor of departures. I arrived at about 11pm (the last bus leaves the city centre around midnight) and my flight was at 6:15am.

There are long seats in the entrance that you can sleep on, but I would recommend sleeping on the long wooden bench that borders the windows in baggage claim (enter departures then turn right) so that you don’t get disturbed by all of the people who arrive at 4am trying to check in as I did (you can’t check in at the machines until 5am) 😤 

The lights in baggage claim are really bright so definitely remember your sleep mask (and ear plugs ofc)! There were probably about 10 other people also sleeping there, so you won’t be alone!

Temperature-wise it was perfect for me – I slept in the clothes I’d been wearing in the day with my jacket as a blanket.

Toilets and a water refilling station are available in baggage claim.

There was also a member of staff on the desk most (possibly all…) of the night if you had any questions and they are very used to people sleeping there.

As airport sleeping goes this felt very safe but wasn’t the most comfy. However, it saved me a night of paying for accommodation and got me to my flight on time with no stress, so I would do this again.

GETTING TO TROMSØ BY BOAT

Even though flying is the fastest and often the cheapest way to get to Tromsø, many travelers prefer to arrive by boat – be it an international cruise ship or the Norwegian coastal express. 

Hurtigruten , also known as the  Norwegian Coastal Express , is a Norwegian cruise, ferry, and cargo operator. The entire Hurtigruten cruise runs along the Norwegian coast from Bergen to Kirkenes (see the map), stopping at 32 ports and completing the round-trip journey in 11 days. You can jump on board in any of those 32 ports and tailor the journey according to your needs.

Like Hurtigruten, Havila also sails the coast of Norway from Bergen to Kirkenes and back and calls in 34 ports along the way. The entire round trip takes 12 days. 

OUR TIP:  If you want to travel from Tromsø to Lofoten, we recommend you take the Hurtigruten boat. You leave Tromsø at 1:30 and arrive at Svolvær at 18:30. You can book a cabin, get some rest at night, and admire the coast of Vesterålen and Lofoten during the day.  👉 More on traveling from Tromso to the Lofoten Islands. 

GETTING TO TROMSØ BY TRAIN & BUS

First of all – there is no train that would take you all the way to Tromsø. 

The furthest north you can get by train is:

• Bodø/Fauske from Norway
• Narvik from Sweden
• or Rovaniemi (Kolari, Kemiljärvi) from Finland.

For the train schedules check: 

• vy.no (Norway)
• sj.se (Sweden)
• vr.fi (Finland)

From Bodø, Fauske, Narvik or Rovaniemi, you will have to continue to Tromsø by bus.

There are daily buses departing from Bodø and arriving to Narvik via Fauske. F rom Narvik, there is a direct bus nb. 100 that departs from Narvik bus terminal at 5:35 am, 1:30 pm and 3:45 pm and arrives to Tromsø Prostneset ca 4 hours later.

• For up-to-date bus schedules in Norway, please check entur.no.

From Rovaniemi/Kilipsjärvi (Finland) there are seasonal bus connections to Tromsø (during the summer and in winter from December 1 – March 31). 

• For up-to-date bus schedules in Finland, please check ekselisen.fi.

5. GETTING TO TROMSØ CITY CENTER FROM THE AIRPORT

1. getting to tromso city center by public bus.

Tromsø Airport (Langnes) is served by several public bus routes that connect the airport to the city center. The primary route is Route 42 , which takes you directly to the city center. But you can also take buses nb 24 and 40. 

The public buses generally run during the day from early morning (5:50 am) until late evening (09:30 pm).

Tickets for the public buses can be purchased through a mobile app ( Troms Billett ), or from the bus driver (cash or card). A single adult ticket for a one-way trip cost around 20-40 NOK depending on the time you travel.  The variation of the prices are given by the rush hours.  You pay cheaper price outside of the rush hours (Monday to Friday from 09AM to 2PM and from 5PM to 1AM.) 

2. GETTING TO TROMSO CITY CENTER BY AN AIRPORT SHUTTLE

Tromsø Airport also has an airport express bus service, known as Flybussen . Flybussen transports you to/from Tromsø Airport, via Moxy Hotel, to the main city center hotels. 

You will find the red airport shuttle bus (Flybussen from Bussring) just outside the main entrance by the domestic arrival area at Tromsø Airport. It only takes 15 minutes to get from the airport to the city centre and you will be dropped off at or near your hotel in downtown Tromsø.

  The departures are timed to corresp ond with departing and arriving flights.  Tickets can be bought online or on the bus when hopping on.

The price for the airport express bus is 125 NOK for one-way ticket (adult) and 200 NOK for return ticket. Students, children and senior citizens pay discounted rate. 

3. GETTING TO TROMSO CITY CENTER BY TAXI

Several taxi companies serve Tromsø Airport, including Tromsø Taxi, Din Taxi, Norgestaxi, Uber and others. In my opinion, they all have quite confusing webpages that are often only in Norwegian. 

You can either pre-book a taxi, for example, via the Taxifix app (Android/Apple) or Uber, or simply pick one up at the designated taxi ranks outside the terminal.

Be aware that pre-booking a taxi from the airport is more expensive. If you join the taxi line, you’ll spend between 220 and 350 NOK, depending on where in the city center you want to go. If you want a taxi to wait for you, the minimum cost is 500 NOK because they also need to account for the time they lose waiting for you. Also, be aware that a higher fare may be charged during weekends and nighttime hours.

If you are a group of up to four people, you have the option to book a private transfer for 600 NOK. 

You can pay for the taxi through the app or by credit/debit card to the taxi driver. Tipping is not a significant part of the culture in Norway, so a tip is not expected.

Do not worry if you arrive late at night or if you need to catch an early flight. There are taxis in Tromsø available at night, too; just use the Taxifix app or Uber or call Tromsø Taxi (+47 03011 ) or Din Taxi (+47 02045).

6. GETTING AROUND TROMSØ BY PUBLIC BUS

Navigating Tromsø by public bus is relatively easy and convenient , offering an efficient way to explore the city and its surroundings.

Tromsø has a well-organized public bus system operated by Troms fylkestrafikk (Troms County Traffic). The buses are modern and comfortable, making them a reliable mode of transportation within the city.

The frequency of bus services can vary depending on the route and time of day. Generally, buses in Tromsø run frequently during peak hours and less frequently in the evenings and on weekends. During rush hours, you can expect buses to run every 10-15 minutes on popular routes.

Tromsø’s bus routes cover the city center, suburbs, and even some of the surrounding areas. The main routes often pass through key locations like the airport, university, hospital, and shopping centers.

Download the Troms Billett mobile app to buy and store tickets digitally. This is a convenient way to pay, especially if you plan to use public transport frequently. However, you can also buy a bus ticket when boarding a bus.

To plan your bus journey, you can use the Troms fylkestrafikk website, google maps or entur.no. These resources provide real-time information about bus schedules, routes, and ticket options.

7. RENTING A CAR IN TROMSØ

R enting a car in Tromsø can be a convenient option for travelers looking to explore the stunning landscapes and attractions of the region. For most visitors, picking up a rental car from one of the major rental companies like Sixt or Hertz right at the airport is the easiest and most hassle-free choice. 

Alternatively, you can consider renting from a local company called Rent a Star, which comes highly recommended due to its consistently stellar reviews. 

Additionally, especially during the summer months, many travelers opt to rent campervans for roadtrip to the Lofoten Islands.

8. PARKING IN TROMSØ

Keep in mind that free parking is scarce in Tromsø’s city center , and even hotels do not provide complimentary free parking for their guests. You will not find any free parking on the weekdays in the city center. 

Therefore, renting a car is particularly beneficial if you plan to stay outside the city center or wish to venture into the surrounding areas, such as embarking on a day trip to Lyngen Alps, Sommaroy, or Senja Island. 

You are allowed to park on the street only in areas marked with parking signs featuring a white “P” on a blue background. These signs also specify the specific time periods during which parking fees are applicable.

The first line indicates the times for parking fees on weekdays, and the times in brackets specify the fees for Saturdays. 

If there were an additional line with times in red brackets, it would denote the hours when parking fees apply on Sundays.

9. WINTER DRIVING IN TROMSØ

If you’re used to driving in snowy conditions, it’s not too hard to drive on straight roads when it’s light and clear. But driving on twisty roads or when it’s snowing, especially in the dark, that’s a whole different story. 

Usually, the roads aren’t fully cleared of snow, just packed down a bit.  Luckily, Norwegians use studded winter tires, so driving on icy, snowy roads is doable, but you’ve got to be extra careful if you’re not used to winter driving.

Y ou don’t need a 4×4 car rental in winter; most locals drive regular cars with studded tires. 

When there’s a heavy snowstorm or blizzard you can get kind of dizzy or can’t see well because of all the snow swirling in your headlights. It’s a bit like those spaceships in sci-fi movies when they’re about to jump between galaxies. Meeting another car, or big truck in these conditions can be pretty scary, even if you’re a good driver. 

Road crews do their best to clear the snow, but  watch out for snowdrifts  that can pop up behind sharp turns, even after it seems the roads are clear.

Some days in winter, it’s just not safe to drive at all.  This kind of weather is usually forecasted a few days in advance and there are warnings in TV and newspapers that urge people to stay at home and avoid driving. 

If a big storm like that happens during your trip, you’ll need to be flexible with your plans. Stay safe!

NOTE:  Some people think about renting a car in Tromso and driving all the way to Nordkapp! But remember, it’s at least a 10-hour drive from Tromso to Nordkapp on a good summer day. Also, the road to North Cape is in a special condition during winter. It’s officially closed, but there is a convoy driving, so you can’t go on your own during this rough part in winter.

Do you want to explore the surroundings of Tromso?

10. things to do in tromso in winter.

One of the top attractions in Tromsø during the winter months is the Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis). The city is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, and the winter months offer some of the best viewing conditions.

In addition to Northern Lights tours, Tromsø offers a variety of other winter activities. Dog sledding, reindeer sledding & Sami storytelling, skiing and snowboarding, fishing, and snowshoeing are just a few options.

Tromsø has a vibrant cultural scene, with various museums, galleries, and cultural events . In addition, the city’s restaurants and cafes offer a range of local and international cuisines.

HERE ARE THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN TROMSØ IN WINTER:

❄️ NORTHERN LIGHTS HUNTING

❄️ DOG SLEDDING

❄️ REINDEER SLEDDING & FEEDING + SAMI CULTURE

❄️ WHALE WATCHING

❄️  VISITING AN ICE DOME

❄️ FJORD TOURS & WINTER SIGHTSEEING TRIPS

❄️  DEEP SEA FISHING AND ICE FISHING

❄️ TRIP UP TO TROMSØ CABLE CAR

❄️ SNOWMOBILE TOURS

❄️ SNOWSHOE HIKING

❄️ ALPINE SKIING, SKI TOURING & CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING

❄️ WINTER SEA KAYAKING

We have written a detailed description of each of the activities mentioned above in a separate article “12 Best Things to Do in Tromso in Winter.”  In this articles, you will also find information about the activity’s season, recommended providers, and expected prices.

11. HOW TO SEE THE NORTHERN LIGHTS IN TROMSØ

1. choose the right time of the year.

T o see the northern lights, you need the sky to be dark enough so the aurora would become visible. In Tromsø, the sun does not set below the horizon from about the 18th of May to the 25th of July. It is not until the beginning of September that the sky gets dark enough again. 

You can see the northern lights from the beginning of September until the beginning of April. However,  most travel agencies run their tours  from mid-September until the end of March. 

The peak season is February and March when the weather is slightly more stable than in the other winter months. Moreover, the days become bright enough so you can enjoy lots of different activities and hunt the northern lights during the night.

2. BOOK A NORTHERN LIGHT TOUR

You do not need to book a tour with a travel agency to see the northern lights. If the sky is clear and the northern lights activity is good, you can see northern lights even from the city center of Tromsø.  However, if you want to increase your chance of seeing them, booking a northern lights tour with an experienced guide is always better.

On cloudy days,  the guides are excellent at reading the local weather forecast  and choosing the spot with the biggest chance for a hole in the cloud cover. Moreover, i f the weather forecast looks dim,  they might drive you all the way to Finland  and back if that is the spot that promises the best chances for the night.

On top of that, you will learn a lot about the physics of the northern lights, as well as local legends.  The guides will also take pictures of you and the lights , which requires a bit of practice, and give tips on taking great pictures with your own camera.

👉 Not sure which northern light tour in Tromsø should you choose? Check out our article comparing the best northern lights tours in Tromsø city. 

Here is a beautiful video from our friend Marek, who works as a northern lights guide in Tromsø and took these shots on his tours in 2021/2022 season. 

3. KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT

There might be differences between tour operators, but here is what you can expect when you sign up for  the northern lights chasing trip.  

First, you need to understand that  the northern lights are highly unpredictable.  Moreover, the chance of seeing them depends not only on their activity but also on the local weather and cloud cover. 

The northern lights generally extend from 80 kilometers (50 miles) to 640 kilometers (400 miles) above the Earth’s surface. Therefore, the tour’s name might be misleading since the activity is not about chasing the northern lights but searching for a clear sky. 

• Learn more about what to expect from the northern lights tours in Tromsø. 

On the tour ,  there will be a campfire, there will be stories, and the guides will do anything they can to find a spot where you can spot the northern lights   and make sure that you are staying warm and having a good time while you are waiting for them. 

However, it would be best if you had the right expectations from the start.  It might be cold, there might be a lot of waiting, and it can happen that you will not see the northern lights.   So if seeing the northern lights is your biggest dream, I recommend  booking tours on multiple nights.

4. BEST NORTHERN LIGHTS TOUR IN TROMSØ

There are many companies that offer northern lights trips from Tromsø.  Some use 15-seater minibusses, some big coach buses; some offer private tours in electric cars. But all in all, they are all quite similar. It can also happen that you will meet other companies in the same spot, especially on days with not-so-good weather forecasts. 

When choosing a northern lights tour,  you should first decide what kind of tour you want  – do you want a tour by minibus?   Sailing tour? Do you want to combine the northern lights hunting with another activity like dog sledding or reindeer sledding?

Personally, I would choose a tour by minibus  over the other options mainly because the minibus tours cover the most extensive distance. Moreover, on the days with a not-so-good weather forecast for Tromsø, they will be driving you to Lyngen, or even Finland, if there is a promise of better weather.

Being a photographer myself, I would go for a trip in a small group with a focus on photography . The best photographers, in my opinion, are in Arctic Photo Guide (super small group and unique concept)  Wandering Owl  &  Greenlander  (small tours by minibus) and  Northern Shots  (tours by big couches).

5. CHASING AURORA ON YOUR OWN

Northern lights tours are expensive, therefore renting a car and chasing the aurora on your own can sometimes be the cheapest option for independent travellers. 

If you feel confident driving on snowy and icy roads in the winter, having your own car will give you flexibility to see the landscape around Tromsø during the day and chase the lights during the night. 

👉 If you plan to chase northern lights on your own, check our article about the weather and Northern lights forecast for Tromso and Lofoten Islands. 

12. WHERE TO STAY IN TROMSØ

Despite being the biggest city in northern Norway, Tromsø is relatively small. Most of Tromsø city, including the downtown area, university, and airport, is located on the small island of Tromsøya (“Tromsø Island”). The city center is in the southeastern part of the island, where you find major tourist attractions like Polaria and the Polar Museum, as well as most of the hotels, shops, restaurants, and nightlife.

Tromsø has many mid-range and first-class hotels located downtown, mainly in the harbor area and around the main shopping street Storgata. Moreover, these two locations are only about a five-minute walk from each other.

In our opinion,  the best place to stay in Tromsø is around Tromsø harbor.  The area is pretty quiet, almost car-free, and you will get a fantastic view of the spectacular Tromsø bridge, which connects the island of Tromsø to the mainland, as well as the Arctic Cathedral, Fjellheisen cable car, and the majestic mountains like Fløya and Tromsdalstinden. 

In addition, you will get plenty of restaurants and cafés within a 10-minute of walking distance from your hotel, and if you are lucky, you might be able to spot the northern lights right out of your hotel window.

THE BEST HOTELS IN TROMSO FOR EVERY BUDGET

We lived in Tromso in 2022, and Radka’s experience working for a local travel agency has given us an in-depth understanding of the accommodation and tour providers in Tromso. However, understanding the importance of personal experience, we recently went on an 8-day trip to Tromso, staying in 8 different hotels to provide you with firsthand insights.

In this article, we share our unique perspectives and recommendations to help you find the best hotels in Tromso, whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury.

13. WHERE TO EAT IN TROMSØ

For being such a small city, Tromsø has an impressive number of restaurants where you can taste local cuisine and restaurants and bistros where you can find international food like pizza or burgers. 

You should keep in mind that eating out in Norway is pretty expensive. Expect to pay around 150 – 180 NOK for a burger and 800 – 1000 NOK for a 5-course dinner menu. 

Also, due to Norway´s strict laws, alcohol is costly. Expect to pay around 100 NOK per 0,5 liter of beer. 

OUR TIPS FOR THE BEST TROMSØ RESTAURANTS & BISTROS

TRADITIONAL RESTAURANTS

Smak Tromsø is a small intimate restaurant with 18 seats that serves masterfully prepared seasonal dishes made of high-class local ingredients paired with great wines. The menu changes every second week. Dinner at Smak is a Michelin-star gastronomic experience. OPENING HOURS* Tue – Sat: 17 – 24 Sun – Mon: CLOSED * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages. 

👉 Book your table at Smak

If you are a seafood lover, you shouldn´t miss having dinner (or lunch) at Fiskekompaniet. During lunchtime, a seafood bar is available for drop-ins and small plates. In the evenings, the restaurant offers a seasonal 4 or 6-course menu consisting of seafood-based dishes and local meat combined with local herbs, hand-picked mushrooms, seaweed, and a top wine arrangement. OPENING HOURS* Lunch | Mon – Fri 11:30 – 15:00 Dinner | Mon – Sat 17:00 – 22:00 * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages.  👉 BOOK YOUR TABLE AT FISKEKOMPANIET

Arctandria Seafood Restaurant is, as the name suggests, all about seafood dishes based on seasonal catches from the Arctic region. You can taste grilled stockfish, delicious halibut, whale stakes, and many other tasty dishes. Located in an old storehouse on the quayside in central Tromsø, Arctandria offers a beautiful view of the harbor. Unfortunately, the menu is in Norwegian, and the English translation is poor. However, if you ask, the waiters will explain all the dishes and what they contain. OPENING HOURS* Mon – Sat 16 – 23 Sunday CLOSED * The opening hours might change; please double-check them on the official web pages. 

Full Steam is located along the quayside promenade in the old harbor area. Partly a museum and partly a restaurant with a rustic wooden interior, Full Steam offers a small but perfectly executed menu consisting of seafood-based dishes and local meat, like reindeer stew, whale steak, stockfish, or lamb, as well as a good selection of wines and tap beers. OPENING HOURS* Mon – Sun 11 – 24 Lunch 11 – 16 * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages. 

Emmas Drommekjokken (Emma’s Dream Kitchen) is a cozy and inviting restaurant that serves food made with regional, seasonal produce. The restaurant is a local institution, and past guests include members of Norwegian royalty and Hillary Clinton.  The house where Emmas is located has three floors. Emma’s Under is located on the first floor, and it is more of a cafe, while Emma´s Drømmekjøkkenlocated on the second floor, is more of a tablecloth-type restaurant serving pricey yet excellent Norwegian food of the best quality.  OPENING HOURS* Mon – Sat 11 – 22 Sundays CLOSED * The opening hours might change; please double-check them on the official web pages. 

BISTROS & INTERNATIONAL CUISINE

Burgr is a cool little burger bar serving juicy burgers for an affordable price. The deco is based on popular 90s video games, and it feels like being in a Super Mario video game. In fact, all burgers here are named after video games, like Mario, Wario, or Doom! In our opinion, Burgr serves the best burger in Tromsø. Burgr doesn´t make table reservations. OPENING HOURS* Mon – Fri 15 – 21 Sat – Sun 12 – 21 * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages. 

T-Tapas might be the best tapas in town. However, if you don’t fancy anything from the sea, you would be left with a slightly smaller selection. Still, there would be plenty to choose from. T-Tapas has a cozy and mediterainian atmosphere and the food is delicious and service great! 👉 BOOK YOUR TABLE AT TROMSØ TAPAS OPENING HOURS* Mon – Thu 15 – 22 Fri – Sat 15 – 23 Sun CLOSED * The opening hours might change; please double-check them on the official web pages. 

If you are tired of the classical Norwegian dishes and would like to try something completely different, swing by Wedeb´s restaurant and indulge into the tastes of African cuisine. The owner is super friendly, the service is perfect and the food is delicious.  Moreover, Wedeb´s is a really good options for vegans and vegetarian in Tromsø. OPENING HOURS Mon – Tue CLOSED Wed – Sun 16 – 22 * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages. 

Casa Inferno is a cozy restaurant with a steampunk-inspired interior that serves delicious pizza made in a wood-fired stone oven accompanied by many quality wines from Italy. 👉 BOOK YOUR TABLE AT CASA INFERNO OPENING HOURS* Sun – Wed 16 – 22 Thur – Sat 16 – 23 * The opening hours might change; please double-check them on the official web pages. 

Nitty Gritty is a stylish bar & grill inspired by the prohibition era that serves delicious burgers and even better steaks cooked to perfection. The staff is amiable and attentive. OPENING HOURS* Tue – Thu 16 – 22 Fri – Sat 16 – 22 Sun 16 – 22 * the opening hours might change, please double check them on the official webpages. 

14. TROMSØ IN WINTER: WHAT TO PACK?

Dressing in layers is the ultimate answer to all your questions regarding how to dress for Tromsø in winter.

The layer system is designed to let you modify your clothing for all kinds of temperatures and weather conditions , with warm air generated by your body trapped between the layers to keep them warm. 

We wrote a comprehensive article on  what to pack for winter trip to Lofoten ,  where we explained the layering system and give practical tips for what to wear in northern Norway in winter. Make sure you check it out!

MICROSPIKES vS. YAKTRAX vS. CRAMPONS

Microspikes, Yaktrax, and crampons are all traction devices used for walking or hiking on snow and ice , but they differ in design and intended use. 

For Tromsø in winter, whether you need any of these depends on your activities and the weather conditions.  

If you plan to walk around the city, Yaktrax or rubber ice cleats might suffice. For more serious hiking on icy or snowy trails, microspikes are generally recommended. Crampons would only be necessary for mountaineering or ice climbing, so most of you would not need them.  If you are from a warm-weather country and don’t want to order ice traction devices in advance, don’t worry too much about it. You can find them in any sports store or shops like Biltema for about 50 NOK (rubber ice cleats) to 200 NOK (microspikes).  

However, we highly recommend using them in winter – we have seen far too many tourists (and locals) falling on ice. A friend of ours actually slipped at a bus stop in Tromsø and ended up with a broken elbow, surgery, and a few weeks of being unable to use her arm.

15. INTERACTIVE TOURIST MAP OF TROMSØ (WINTER EDITION)

So, without further ado, here it comes, our interactive map of Tromsø , which we wished we had when we moved to Tromsø. We have marked the main tourist attractions and activities in Tromsø, along with our trips for accommodation, restaurants, bars, and cafés, and we hope that it will make planning your trip much easier and less frustrating. 

Ivar & Radka

Hi! We are Ivar & Radka, an international couple who runs the Guide to Lofoten. We met in Trondheim and lived together in western Norway, Narvik and Tromsø. At the moment we call western Lofoten our home. We hope our page will make it easier for you to explore the beautiful places that made us chose Norway for our home.

TROMSØ WINTER TRAVEL GUIDE: PiN IT!

7 Responses

hi Ivar&Radka, thanks for putting all these information together, after much consideration I prefer to visit Tromso/Lofoten in the month of November with more availability of winter activities however I just wanted to get some idea how to plan my trip. I dont plan to hunt for northern lights by driving (will prefer to sign for tour), and looking at a 10-14days trip in total (still not knowing what are the places that I shouldn’t missed visiting while I am there except knowing Lofoten is a stunning place, Tromso is more touristy. I am thinking of renting a car (avoiding the hassle of dragging my luggages chasing for public transport). to drive are mainly to get from one place to another but I am just very worried bout the driving condition and wondering if you have any suggested itinerary. thanks in advance.

I have tried to download your wonderful app today, but when I get to the payment part I get this message after going via Paypal.

We were unable to process the payment. Cannot change payment status. Amount is different 1990 != 1989.

If you are able to let me know what I can do please?

Thank you. nicci.

Many thanks for the efforts you have put into writing this site.

Thank you for your reply, Reena. We are very happy to hear you found our article helpful 🙂 Enjoy your trip to Tromsø!

Ivar & Radka

Thank you for this detailed information. Extremely helpful for me towards planning our Tromso trip .

Very well explained, I really liked the information provided by you , its really helpful. Can you pls. Help me for sweden and Finland tour also .

We (4person including 2 kids) are coming to oslo on 17th December and planning to visit Tormso ,lofoten , Sweden and ? santa village on Christmas then will be back on 27th to Africa. Can you pls. Suggest some good museums and activities which we can plan to visit with northern lights, whale watching, sledging and visit ice hotel too. Thanks in advance

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The Smooth Escape

Nature & adventure travel blog

Tromso itinerary for 4 days: The perfect Tromso winter trip

Are you thinking about taking a winter trip to Tromsø and wondering how to plan your itinerary? Then you’ve come to the right place!

The enchanting city of Tromso in Northern Norway is a real winter wonderland and is often called the Capital of the Arctic. We spent 4 days in Tromso in December, in the middle of the Polar Night period, the Aurora Borealis season and the whale watching season. It was absolutely magical!

Below, I’m sharing my 4-day Tromso itinerary that allows you to experience the incredible beauty of the Arctic winter, complete with Northern Lights, snow-capped mountains, reindeer, orca sightings and husky sledding. 

At the bottom of this post, you’ll also find my recommendations on where to stay, what to do when the weather is bad and a map that gives you an overview of where the main sights on this Tromsø itinerary are located.

Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission at no additional cost to you if you make a purchase.

How to get around

You don’t really need to rent a car when visiting Tromsø. The town itself is small and the main points of interest are within walking distance from each other or can easily be reached by public buses. 

Also, most of the classic Tromso winter activities have to be done as part of organized tours, meaning you can’t do them on your own. They usually include transportation to a location outside of the city and back. These are activities like reindeer and husky tours, whale watching tours, Sami tours, northern lights tours etc.

With that said, we did rent a car for one of the days of our Tromso itinerary to take a road trip outside of the town and explore the beautiful landscapes at our own pace. We really enjoyed it and can recommend doing the same but only if you’re confident in your ability to drive on icy roads.

Alternatively, if you don’t want to drive, you can book an organized tour that takes you to more or less the same places that we visited on our little road trip. I’m sharing more details about this in the itinerary below (see Day 2).

Another reason for renting a car would be if you want to go searching for the Northern Lights on your own. It probably won’t be cheaper than joining a Northern Lights tour though (unless you travel with a bigger group) and you would miss out on the expertise of the professional tour guides.

Good to know: From about November 21 to January 21, Tromsø experiences the Polar Night – a period when the sun doesn’t rise above the horizon. However, this doesn’t mean there’s no daylight or that it’s dark all the time. From about 10am to 2pm, you can see beautiful colors of twilight in the sky so plan to be outside during these hours if you’re visiting during the Polar Night.

Tromso itinerary: How to spend 4 days in Tromso in winter

Day 1: storsteinen, tromsø town & northern lights tour, storsteinen viewpoint.

On the first day of your Tromso itinerary, head to the viewpoint on Storsteinen Mountain (420m/1378ft) for an amazing panoramic view over Tromso. You can get to the foot of the mountain from the city by bus #26.

From there, the Storsteinen viewpoint can be reached in two ways – by taking the Fjellheisen cable car (what most people do) or by hiking up the mountainside along the Sherpatrappa (‘Sherpa stairs’) trail. The round-trip ticket for the cable car costs 415 NOK whereas hiking is free.

Since we love to hike, we decided to hike up and take the cable car back down. The hike was quite challenging since we were walking through thick snow but it was a fun experience nonetheless with some great views along the way. It took us under an hour to reach the top, where we were rewarded with a spectacular view of the city below us.

Besides the viewpoint, there’s also a cafe and several hiking trails on the top. We got there a bit late when it was already starting to get dark so we didn’t explore any of the trails.

Tromso town

After Storsteinen, spend the afternoon getting to know the town of Tromso. Visit the Arctic Cathedral (one of the most famous landmarks of Tromso), take in the views from Tromsø Harbour and stroll along Storgata, a lovely pedestrian street lined with cafes, restaurants and shops.

You can also visit the Polar Museum to learn about polar expeditions and life in the Arctic region or take a beer tour at Mack Brewery , the northernmost brewery in the world.

Northern Lights tour

In the evening, take a Northern Lights tour to (hopefully) see the magnificent Aurora Borealis dance in the night sky. Although Aurora sightings can never be guaranteed, the guides on these tours work hard to find the best locations each night and communicate with other guides to find clear skies.

We took this Northern Lights bus tour , which started at 6.30pm and finished around 1am. If you prefer a smaller group instead of a bus, you can book this tour . On the tour we took, you also have the option of booking another Northern Lights tour for only 50% of the price if you don’t see the lights the first time.

Unfortunately, we only caught a faint glimpse of the Aurora that night but this is nothing to be blamed on the tour company. It’s nature – sometimes there simply isn’t enough solar activity or the sky is too cloudy.

We did end up seeing a fantastic Northern Lights display on our final night (see Day 4 of this itinerary). It was an awe-inspiring experience and truly a sight to remember!

Note: For a higher chance of seeing the Northern Lights, you should head out every night to search for them, either with a tour or by yourself. For this reason, this Tromso winter itinerary includes outdoor activities on each of the four nights.

Day 2: Kvaløya, Sommarøy and DIY Northern Lights hunt

Arctic road trip.

On the second day of your trip, it’s time to take a road trip out of Tromsø to see some beautiful Arctic scenery. I recommend heading to Kvaløya and Sommarøy, two islands located west of Tromsø, which can be reached by driving (no ferry crossings needed).

To do that you can either rent a car and explore on your own like we did or join a tour that includes transport and a guide. We rented a car at Tromsø airport. Please only consider renting if you’re familiar with driving on snow and ice. Otherwise, you can take this 5-hour small group tour with a minivan, where you’ll visit the most scenic spots on Kvaløya while your guide shares their knowledge of the area. Lunch and photos are included. 

On these islands, you can expect to see snow-covered mountains, picturesque fjords, Arctic beaches and quaint fishing villages. If you’re lucky, you might even come across some wild reindeer. The main points of interest on Kvaløya are Ersfjordbotn and Grøtfjorden, whereas on the tiny island of Sommarøy, I recommend just driving around and taking in the charm.

Search for Northern Lights on your own

In the evening, I recommend going Northern Lights hunting again. If you rented a car and are keeping it for the evening, try to find a dark area away from light pollution on Ringvassøya, Kvaløya or Sommarøy islands. 

Otherwise, you can also look for them in Tromsø without a car but they will likely look a bit weaker because of the city lights nearby. The best spots to see Northern Lights in the town are Prestvannet Lake and Telegrafbukta Beach, both of which can be reached by walking or public buses from Tromsø center. We visited both of them but unfortunately, the Northern Lights didn’t show up that night.

The Storsteinen viewpoint is another recommended place to see the aurora but remember that this requires taking a cable car (which stops running at midnight) or hiking there in the dark.

Day 3: Whale watching & Northern Lights

Whale watching tour.

On day 3, wake up early and get ready for what’s probably going to be one of the coolest experiences of your Tromso trip – a whale watching tour. Every year from late October to late January, orcas, humpback whales and fin whales gather in the fjords at Skjervøy, northeast of Tromsø, to feed on herring.

The whale watching boat tours take you right into their feeding grounds, which means you’ll have very good chances of spotting the whales. The tours last for a full day as it takes several hours to reach the whale territory. You definitely won’t get bored though because the views of the Arctic scenery around the boat are amazing. 

We took the Silent Whale Watching tour by Brim Explorer and saw several pods of orcas, a few humpback whales and even a fin whale. If you’d like to book the same tour, use my discount code ‘smoothescape’ to get 5% off your booking.

It’s a bucket-list-worthy experience that should definitely be on your Tromso itinerary if you’re visiting during the whale season (late October to late January). 

Be sure to read my detailed blog post on whale watching in Tromso for all the information you need to plan your whale tour.

Note: If you’re visiting Tromso outside of the whale watching season, you can take an Arctic fjord cruise instead. Although you won’t see whales, you will see picturesque coastal landscapes, fjords, fishing villages and maybe even some eagles and harbor porpoises.

Look for Aurora Borealis

After the whale tour, grab some dinner and then head outside to search for the Northern Lights again. You can look for them on your own by going to one of the places in Tromso that I mentioned in the section about Day 2 or you can take another Northern Lights tour to increase your chances of seeing them.

Day 4: Dog sledding, reindeer & Sami camp

Dog sledding tour.

Kick off the last day of your Tromso trip with a husky sledding tour. It’s one of the most popular things to do in Tromso in winter and gets sold out months in advance so make sure to book your tour in time. 

You can either take a husky sled self-drive tour , which means that you will be the one controlling the sled or you can take a sled ride , where you’ll just be the passenger and a professional musher will do the ‘driving’. In either case, you’ll ride through beautiful frozen landscapes with a team of huskies and finish the tour with a traditional lunch.

Reindeer feeding and Sami culture tour

In the evening, round off your Tromso winter trip with one final tour – a visit to this Sami camp to learn about the Sami culture and meet a herd of 300 reindeer. 

The Sami are the indigenous people of Scandinavia who have a distinct culture, language and traditions. They are known as excellent reindeer herders and at this Sami camp, you can pet and feed their reindeer and go reindeer sledding. During the tour, the Sami people will also share stories about their culture and beliefs. The tour includes a traditional dinner served around a fire in a cozy Sami hut.

We loved everything about this tour (especially feeding the adorable friendly reindeer) but the absolute highlight of the evening was when the Northern Lights suddenly appeared in the sky.

We were in complete awe as we watched the vivid green lights dance above our heads. It was truly a one-of-a-kind experience and the perfect ending to our Tromso itinerary.

Where to stay in Tromso

The most convenient place to stay in Tromso is the center of the city. This way you’ll be just a short walk from all the restaurants, shops and tour departure points.

Keep in mind that winter (especially December) is the peak season for tourism in Tromso and hotels get sold out fast. I recommend booking your accommodation at least 3 months in advance if you’re visiting Tromso in winter.

MID-RANGE: Smarthotel Tromsø Situated in the center of Tromso, this is an unpretentious hotel with a contemporary design and a delicious breakfast. Considering the high price level of Tromso, this place offers great value for money.

LUXURY: Clarion Hotel The Edge This is the most modern and luxurious hotel in Tromso with an excellent location right by the harbor. The hotel has an on-site restaurant and Tromso’s only sky bar.

UNIQUE STAYS: Aera Panoramic Glass Lodge or Tromso Ice Domes The first one is a gorgeous cabin with glass walls and glass roof, perfect for watching the Northern Lights from the comfort of your bed. The second one is a hotel made entirely of ice! The Ice Domes experience also includes a snowshoe hike, husky sledding, a Northern Lights hunt and all meals.

What to do in Tromso when the weather is bad

Although people mostly visit Tromso for all the wonderful outdoor activities, sometimes the weather can let you down and you’ll just want to stay indoors instead. If that’s the case during your trip, here are some ideas for what to do in Tromso in bad weather:

• Relax in a spa – In Tromsøbadet , there are different types of heated pools, saunas and water attractions for kids. For something a bit more unusual, visit the Vulkana Arctic Spa boat or the small floating PUST Sauna.
• Explore Tromso’s museums – From the Polar Museum and the Arctic University Museum of Norway to the Troll Museum and Perspective Museum, there are plenty of museums to explore in the city.
• Taste local beer and spirits – You can take a brewery tour of Mack Brewery (the northernmost brewery in the world) and do a beer tasting at their bar Ølhallen. Or you can take this Northern spirits tasting tour that also includes Norwegian delicacies.
• Visit Tromso library – A nice place to hide from the cold weather. There’s a cafe, quiet areas, a kids’ area and board games that you can borrow.

Other places to include in your Tromso itinerary

There are lots of fun things to do and places to see near Tromso, so if you have more time to spend or you’re just looking to add other activities to your Tromso travel itinerary, here are my suggestions:

• See the ice sculptures at Tromso Ice Domes
• Go on a snowshoe hike
• Go snowmobiling at Camp Tamok
• Go winter sea kayaking and potentially see seals and eagles
• Visit Norway’s second-largest island Senja (we visited Senja in the summer and loved it!)
• If you have more days, visit the Lofoten Islands , an archipelago that has some of the most beautiful landscapes I’ve ever seen.

4-day Tromso itinerary map

On the interactive map below, you can find the main points of interest and the hotels I mentioned in this blog post. Click on the icon in the top left corner of the map for more details.

Tromso itinerary: Final thoughts

And that’s it – these were my recommendations on how to spend 4 days in Tromso. It’s a magical place to visit in the winter and offers so much to discover. Once you’ve experienced its Arctic charm and seen the beautiful wildlife and the Northern Lights, you’ll want to go back again!

If you have any questions about this Tromso winter itinerary, leave them in the comments section.

Don’t forget to check out my other Norway blog posts for more helpful travel tips:

• Whale safari in Tromso
• Travel guide to Senja Island
• 5-day Lofoten Islands itinerary
• How to take a campervan trip in Norway
• Most beautiful hikes in Lofoten
• Best beaches in Lofoten

Pin this Tromso winter itinerary!

Visiting Senja Island in Norway: A complete travel guide

Guide to whale watching in Tromso (& the most ethical way to do it)

The perfect Lofoten itinerary: 5 days on the Lofoten Islands

Reinebringen hike: The most famous view in Lofoten, Norway

10 best beaches in Lofoten, Norway’s Arctic paradise

Great article. I scrolled to day 4 just to see the Northern Lights photo. Amazing.

Thanks Alex! It sure was an amazing sight! 🙂

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Seven Amazing Places To Visit When You’re In Tromso

Nestled in the far North, Tromso, Norway is a dream destination for many wanderlust-filled travelers seeking the ethereal glow of the Northern Lights.

But what else does this Arctic wonderland have to offer? If you’ve been googling “What to do near Tromso?” – I’ve got your back.

I get it, planning a trip to an unfamiliar place can be tough – questions about how to get there, what to see, and what the weather will be like.

As a seasoned traveler and avid explorer who has roamed the breathtaking landscapes of Norway, I can tell you that the area around Tromso is bursting with natural beauty and cultural wonders just waiting to be explored.

I still remember my first trip to Tromso, the excitement as I packed my bags, the chilly Arctic air as I stepped off the plane, and the sheer amazement as I watched the Northern Lights put on their dazzling show in the sky.

That journey marked the beginning of a love affair with Norway, a love that has only grown with each subsequent visit.

So, whether you’re an adventurous soul craving outdoor thrills or a history buff with a passion for local culture, this post is tailor-made for you.

Saving on the price of a flight ticket is a game-changer for your budget. Uncover the secrets to finding the cheapest flights with these expert tricks, beginning with some good old-fashioned research!

Best things to do in Tromso in winter

There’s something truly magical about Tromso in winter. The city completely transforms into a snowy wonderland, with these breathtaking landscapes and starry skies that turn into the perfect canvas for the mesmerizing Northern Lights .

The crisp, frosty air, the exhilaration of winter sports, and the cozy warmth of firesides make Tromso an absolute winter paradise.

Whether you’re all bundled up, chasing the Northern Lights, or simply enjoying a cup of hot chocolate at a local café, you’ll definitely find a winter activity that makes your heart sing in Tromso.

So let’s dive into these amazing frosty delights that Tromso has to offer in the winter!

• Chase the Northern Lights : The primary reason tourists flock to Tromso in winter is to witness the spectacular Aurora Borealis. There are numerous local tours that offer excellent viewing opportunities.
• Visit the Arctic Cathedral: Also known as Tromsdalen Church, this iconic and beautifully lit structure is an absolute must-visit.
• Dog Sledding : Experience the thrill of riding a sled pulled by a team of Huskies. This is a quintessential Tromso winter experience that shouldn’t be missed.
• Visit Polaria: An Arctic-themed experience with a panoramic cinema and aquarium. Here you can learn about climate change and its impact on Arctic wildlife.
• Polar Fjord Cruise: Enjoy an intimate experience with the stunning Norwegian fjords. Wrap up warm and navigate the icy waters while observing the local wildlife.
• Visit the Tromso Ice Domes: A hotel made entirely of snow and ice, complete with an ice cinema, ice bars and beautifully lit ice sculptures.
• Take a Cable Car to Mount Storsteinen: Enjoy magnificent panoramic views of Tromso and the surrounding islands and fjords. It’s especially magical when the city is lit up in the winter darkness.
• Samueli Planetarium: Take a journey into space and learn about the Northern Lights and other cosmic phenomena in this fascinating planetarium.

Places to visit near Tromso

If you’re up for extending your Tromso adventure and exploring beyond the city, there are some seriously breathtaking spots nearby that you gotta check out!

These places are full of natural beauty and cultural richness, giving your Nordic journey an extra layer of depth. Don’t miss out on these remarkable locations near Tromso!

The Lofoten Islands

Known for their majestic mountains, deep-sea fishing, and Aurora viewing opportunities, the Lofoten Islands are a must-visit. It’s a 6-hour journey from Tromso, perfect for a day trip .

Senja Island

As Norway’s second-largest island, Senja offers spectacular landscapes, ranging from mountains and forests to beaches and fishing villages. Located just a 3-hour drive from Tromso, it’s ideal for nature lovers.

Nordkapp (North Cape):

Called the ‘end of the world’, Nordkapp is the northernmost point in Europe, offering breathtaking sea cliffs and midnight sun. It’s a long 6-hour trip from Tromso, but worth the journey.

Known as the city of the Northern Lights, Alta is home to the world’s first Northern Light observatory. It’s a 7-hour drive from Tromso, but the promise of a brilliant light show makes it worth the trip.

Lyngen Alps

A paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, the Lyngen Alps offer skiing, hiking, and fishing opportunities. A 2-hour drive from Tromso, it’s perfect for a short getaway.

A beautiful town located on Norway’s largest island, Hinnøya, Harstad is known for its pristine nature, history, and gastronomy. It’s a 4-hour journey from Tromso, a perfect destination for a day trip.

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Why visit Tromso

I visited Tromso in December 2019. After a month in Africa, specifically Morocco and South Africa, I wanted to experience a slightly colder climate. In Africa, my plan was made through which I wanted to explore the Scandinavian countries.

My curiosity arose when I started reading about Norway.

Inspired by  winter stories , I booked plane tickets to Tromso. Why did I choose this city? I have visited many European countries , most of whom I know very well.

However, Norway was a completely new place for me. I wanted to see the aurora borealis  and take pictures of this fantastic phenomenon.

I had never experienced the polar night because it did not exist in the places where I lived before.

These two factors were the reason I booked tickets to Tromso without thinking twice. As it turned out, it was the best booking in my life.

Upon arrival in Norway, I learned for a few days how to live again. I got used to a short day, to be more precise, not a day but a grey day, which lasted two hours at the most.

I learned about new mobile apps for predicting the aurora borealis and the best places around Tromso to observe it.

How to get to Tromso?

The  fastest, easiest and cheapest  way to get there is by plane.

Flights to Norway from European cities are cheap. I flew to Tromso by WizzAir from Luton Airport, an hour away from London.

The flight took about 2 hours.

You can find the cheapest tickets to Tromso by  using well-known flight search engines like Skyscanner , Expedia, or Kayak . I paid about 50 Euro round trip for my ticket. Cheap!

On arrival in Tromso

When I arrived at Tromso airport, it was twilight. It was 2 in the afternoon. A bit early for the evening, right?

Yes, it is not a coincidence. Tromso is behind the  Arctic Circle ; there is 24/7 darkness for 6 weeks of the year.

Therefore, Tromso is the right time and place to observe the aurora borealis. The climate in Tromso is relatively mild because of the influence of the North Atlantic Current.

Also read: Tromso Winter Vacation: Plan your dream trip to Norway’s Northernmost City

How to find accommodation in Tromso?

Over the last 10 years, Tromso has become a trendy destination among tourists. During the winter, tourists from all over the world come to Tromso to watch the  aurora borealis .

As a result, visitors now have more choices and can decide exactly where to spend their vacation in the city.

Booking and Vrbo are definitely the best places to look for short-term rentals.

During my stay in Tromso, I used Booking.

I found a room located 15 minutes from the city center in a quiet neighborhood. Getting to the center by commuter bus was quick and comfortable. The accommodation cost about 100 Euro per night.

👉  I enjoyed a 20% discount during my stay in Tromso, using  this hotel booking platform

What to see in Tromso

In addition to its breathtaking natural landscapes, Tromso itself offers a variety of attractions that are worth exploring. Here are some top picks of 7 places to visit in Tromso:

The Polar Museum

Learn an exciting story about arctic trapping, hunting, and expeditions of famous Arctic explorers. 

Polar Museum  commemorates the last period of the 19th century when Tromso was the starting point of many polar expeditions to the Arctic.

The museum preserves  historical evidence  and accounts from that period. The exhibitions at the Polar Museum are about seal hunting and spending the winter in very harsh climatic conditions.

There are also profiles of famous explorers from that period, especially Henry Rudi, Wanny Wolstad, and the iconic expeditions of Fridtjof Nansen and Roald Amundsen. The museum also has a gift store. 

Tromso Fjords

We often call Tromso  the gateway to the Arctic . The fjords are a fantastic place to observe wildlife. Fjords surrounded the city, on an island, on all sides.

While in Tromso, mountain views will be an integral sight. Balsfjord and Malangen are the largest fjords in the southern part of the city.

From the north, you can observe, Ullsfjorden and Lyngen, which cut deep into the land and are surrounded by mountains. The  best time to visit  the fjords is during the summer, from June to August. The weather is then stable and crisp.

Fjords are a fantastic work of nature. Although you can see them in other parts of the world, the Norwegian ones stand out for their uniqueness and unusual landscapes. What is worth mentioning, there are 1190 fjords in Norway!

Fjellheisen Tromso

Tromso city view point – Take a ride on the Fjellheisen Cable Car and reach the top of Mount Storsteinen for a stunning view of Tromso, surrounded by mountains and fjords.

This is also a great spot to catch the midnight sun during the summer months.

The cable car in Tromsø was built in 1961. The investor was the Norwegian company Brødrene Jakobsens Reder, which dealt with fishing, Arctic expeditions, and hunting. Symbols of the company, namely the polar bear and the seal, have decorated the railroad carriages.

Traveling by train takes only 4 minutes. From 50 m above sea level, we get to 421 m above sea level. The endpoint is called Storsteinen. And then it’s just  a splendid view !

From here, we can look at the  entire city from above ; only from this perspective can we see that Tromsø is an island. In addition, you can admire the high, majestic mountains all around.

An hour will be enough if you drive up, mainly to see Tromsø. However, I recommend going on a long walk. It’s also a great place to watch the sunrise or sunset.

Pro Tip! Visit the cafe, lookout point, and souvenir store at this spot, which is perfect for hunting the aurora. Tickets available on-site or online. Paid parking in front of the railroad, so be prepared for fees if arriving by car. Address: Kirkegata 2, 9008 Tromsø, Norway.

Polaria is the name of the  aquarium and museum  dedicated to the polar regions in Tromsø, the world’s northernmost aquarium. It is on the coast, in a building with a specific shape intended to resemble falling ice blocks.

The aquarium is home to two species of seals, including two bearded seals, the only representatives of this species living in captivity, and two common seals.

In addition, the aquarium presents fish species characteristic of Arctic waters, primarily those found off the coast of Norway and in the Barents Sea.

They regulate the water temperature in the pools according to the weather outside the aquarium. As a result, its temperature never exceeds 6°C.

In the museum next to the aquarium, they present  exhibitions  on bivalves and their role in marine ecosystems, the impact of human activity and climate change on the Arctic areas, and the formation and melting of the ice caps around the poles.

The museum also houses a  cinema  with seating for 175 people. The screen is 21 meters long and 3.2 meters wide, and five specially recorded projectors project onto its movies to achieve a wide-screen image.

A trip to a reindeer farm

Winter in Norway is not just about the aurora borealis. One of the top attractions in Tromsø County is a visit to a reindeer farm run by the  Saami people . You can take a ride on a reindeer-drawn sleigh or feed the animals.

There are also wild reindeer in this area; they may not be fed or touched. As beautiful as these animals may not be, they are wild animals, and this is the main thing to remember.

Besides visiting a reindeer farm, you can as well eat them. This region is famous for its  reindeer meat served . You will have many opportunities to taste it.

Also, you will buy  reindeer skin  and products decorated with it in many places. I said it is hot and many people use it for hiking.

I will not hide the fact that I stay away from such products. There are many organizers of  trips  to reindeer farms.

I recommend a farm near Tromso, about 25 minutes away. The fastest and easiest way to get there is by rental car.  You can book a reindeer farm tour here . 

Dog sledding 

Dog sledding in Norway is one of the best ways to get close to nature, and, for many, it is an unforgettable experience during a Norwegian adventure. The best place to organize dog sledding is the  northern part  of Norway.

The Finnmark region is where most tours take place . These tours are also popular in the Tromso area.

Many tourist offices organize these tours  of varying lengths and difficulty. In most cases, however, these small family-run companies offer several types of tours.

For example, you can go on a one-day trip as a passenger and a several-day trip with your sled pulled by a pack of Alaskan huskies (5-7 dogs). Prices start at NOK 1,000 and go up to NOK 15,000, depending on the tourist’s preferences.

The ideal option for those with low budgets or little time is a  quick trip on a single sled  in pairs. First, there is a brief introduction – getting to know the dogs and mastering the dog sled, and then the journey begins – one person sits on the sled, and the other steers the ride.

It is also possible to go on a  day trip , where you are provided a hot meal along the way, or for a multi-day trip.

👉  In addition, you can find a dog sled ride , which I highly recommend . 

How and when to observe the northern lights?

Mount storsteinen in tromso.

The chances of seeing this phenomenon are from  September to April . Also, the most significant frequency is from  mid-November to mid-December . We know this period as the polar night when the sun does not cross the horizon line.

The best places to observe the aurora borealis are  far away from cities . You will avoid excessive light, and the aurora will be more visible. During my trip to Norway, I used the website  light pollution map . This website informs about light pollution.

Thanks to the map, you can quickly find a place free from the influence of artificial lighting. While waiting for the aurora borealis, you can indulge in  other trendy activities  in the area. I am thinking of dog sledding or snowmobile rides.

To observe the aurora borealis, you need a cloudless and black sky

A clear sky is a necessary condition to observe the unique phenomenon. The aurora borealis is a phenomenon connected with the current flow in the ionosphere. Magnetic storms cause it on the Sun, which ejects vast amounts of charged particles towards our planet.

These particles encounter the Earth’s magnetosphere, boosting hydrogen and nitrogen, resulting in this extraordinary spectacle.

Auroras come in many  forms and colors . It can appear as arcs, rays, bands, or curtains of green, blue, purple, pink, and even red. I have seen the aurora borealis with shades of green, which is evidence of an abundance of oxygen.

Before deciding to head out of town to observe the aurora, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the current  KP . The KP scale describes the extent of the aurora, with KP0 being the lowest value and showing visibility only near the pole, and KP9+ being the  highest value .

You can observe the chances of the aurora borealis at  Norway – Lights . It is important to remember that just going to observe does not guarantee that you will see the aurora.

Auroras also occur at different times; the  best times  to observe them are between  11 pm and 2 am . However, remember that it is quite a capricious phenomenon, so we will never be 100% sure that we will see it. The aurora shows itself only to a few, so will and patience are not enough.

Above all, you need a lot of luck. Observing the aurora doesn’t need special equipment, just your eyes.

If you want to capture this phenomenon, you can take a  camera . If you already know the aurora forecast, head out of town, as far north as possible. Don’t forget to have a good view of the north.

The 4 best places to observe the aurora borealis in and around Tromso

Brosmetinden mountain.

The well-known mountain, 525 m above sea level, is on the northeastern part of the island of  Kvaløya , an hour’s drive from Tromso.

Climbing Brosmetinden is easy. The mountain is suitable for climbing for all age groups. While climbing, you can enjoy  endless views  of the ocean and the surrounding islands.

The path to the summit is easy to follow and well-trodden. The path first crosses the moor, and then the cliffs appear to our eyes with picturesque views all around.

I recommended this excellent climbing route to all who like short hikes and unforgettable experiences. To the top, you will enjoy the fantastic scenery of the island of Kvaløya.

Also, this  hike does not require much effort . The route is about 2 miles one way. In addition, Brosmetinden is one of the most accessible peaks in the area. There are other prominent peaks in the area, like Sørtinden and Tromtinden.

A 25-minute drive from Tromso is another unique place that I recommend to all tourists. It is ideal for aurora watching and is far from the city.

By choosing this place, we increase our chances of seeing the aurora borealis.  Skulsfjord  is a settlement in the municipality of Tromso, between the fjord and the mountains north of the village.

As the locals say, it is a settlement of beauty. Just get to the water and start preparing for the aurora sighting. The place  does not require climbing .

If you want to hike up this mountain, be prepared for  hours of climbing . Depending on the conditions and preparation, climbing Otertinden can take anywhere from 6 to 10 hours.

Otertinden is one of the best-known mountains in the area. There is a unique and  breathtaking view  at the top of the mountain.

You can start the climb in Lupphujohka. That’s where the starting point is, over 9 kilometers from the junction with Signaldalen. Before climbing, be sure to wear comfortable footwear.

Ersfjord is one of the best photo op places that northern Norway can recommend. The village is a settlement in the municipality of  Senja .

It is in the innermost part of Ersfjord. You can see the Okshornan mountains above the fjord. Ersfjord has a well-known  white sand beach  adapted for picnicking and campfire preparation.

I know the place for its amazing pictures of the aurora borealis. I highly recommend this place, both for camping and  spending the night under the open sky  and waiting for the aurora borealis. There are quite a few tables beside the beach where you can prepare food.

Tromso is one of the north coastal cities in Norway. It is known as the “Venice of the north” due to its Medieval architecture, canals, and the Viking Ship Museum.

The city is also an essential gateway to the Arctic Ocean and the best place to experience Norway’s wildlife and landscape. If you visit Tromso, you should visit these seven unique places .

Here are some helpful resources to assist you in planning your trip:

• Best Tromso Northern Lights Tour Experience – Your Insider’s Guide
• Guide to the Best Tromso Hotels for Every Budget
• Your 2024 Ultimate Travel Guide To Tromso
• Best Tours In Tromso For An Unforgettable Arctic Experience
• Tromso Winter Vacation: How To Plan Your Dream Trip to Norway’s Northernmost City

Are you planning a trip right now?

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I’m Magdalena – Globetrotter, Free Spirit, and your personal travel guide. Since 2017, I’ve been calling France my home while exploring and falling in love with 35+ diverse countries, from the frost-kissed ski towns to the sun-kissed beaches of Costa Rica and El Salvador. Thrive and Wander is a testament to my adventures, filled with destination guides, travel itineraries, and tips for solo female travel. So grab your backpack, let go of your fears, and join me on this journey to explore our beautiful world!

8 Best Museums in Tromso, Norway + Map

Home | Travel | Europe | Norway | Tromso | 8 Best Museums in Tromso, Norway + Map

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The museums in Tromso offer more than just your average galleries. Beyond more typical museums like the Tromso Art Museum and Tromso Science Centre , you’ll also find unique options, including the Polar Museum, Troll Museum, and Perspectives Museum.

Visiting Tromso museums is particularly handy if you’re in Tromso in winter ,  when the weather is cold and snowy. After all, spending a day inside a heated building and learning more about Norwegian art, history, science, and culture is a pretty ideal way to keep warm and have fun at the same time.

Of course, ultimately, Tromsø museums are worth going to at any time of year, since paying them a visit is considered one of the best things to do in Tromso .

1. Polar Museum, the most popular museum in Tromso

Learn all about polar exploration and trapping at the Tromsø Polar Museum . The museum building is an 1830s warehouse that is charmingly located along the waterfront.

Tromso was considered the “Gateway to the Arctic” in the nineteenth century, so many expeditions to the North Pole set out from the city. As such, the permanent exhibitions tell the stories of Arctic explorers Roald Amundsen and Fridtjof Nansen as well as the history of whaling and trapping in Northern Norway.

The Tromso Polar Museum is one of three museums that are run by Tromsø University, the other two being the Tromsø Museum and MS Polstjerna. Because of this, you can enjoy a reduced Polar Museum Tromso entrance fee if you purchase a combined ticket to the Polar Museum and Tromsø Museum.

• Hours : 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
• Price of admission : 100 NOK ($11.59 USD) for adults; 150 NOK ($17.39) for adult combo ticket to Polar Museum and Tromso Museum; free for children under 18

2. Tromso Museum, a fascinating museum in Tromsø

The eponymous Tromsø Museum is a must-see for when you visit Tromso. Also known as the Arctic University Museum of Norway, it houses five permanent exhibitions, including two on the culture and history of the Sami (an indigenous Scandinavian people) called “Sami culture” and “Sápmi – becoming a nation.”

Learn all about the Earth’s formation and even touch some of the university’s geological finds in the “TellUs – From Stardust to Modern Technology” exhibit. Then, head to the “UNNaturally” area to admire some Arctic wildlife and explore the interactions between humans and nature. Finally, if you’re an art history buff, the “Ecclesiastical Art” section boasts a medieval triptych and sculptures from churches around Northern Norway.

As I mentioned above, the Tromso Museum , like the Polar Museum, is a Tromsø University museum , so purchasing a combined ticket for both museums will save you money and be more convenient than buying the tickets separately.

• Hours : 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM, Monday – Friday; 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM, Saturday; 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Sunday

3. MS Polstjerna, an immersive Tromsø museum

Step onboard the MS Polstjerna , a former sealing ship that has been preserved inside a dry-dock, covered glass building. This completely immersive Tromso museum offers you the chance to walk the decks of this historical ship and examine its former occupants’ tools and equipment.

In addition to learning more about sealing, you’ll find exhibits on Sami culture, Arctic wildlife, and polar exploration.

Unfortunately, the ship is currently closed for maintenance, but hopefully, it will reopen soon so you can enjoy visiting this fascinating relic of the past.

• Hours : Currently closed for maintenance
• Price of admission : To be determined

4. Northern Norwegian Science Center, the best Tromso science museum

Embrace your inner scientist at the Northern Norwegian Science Center . This Tromso science museum is suitable for all ages and houses many informative and interactive exhibits. On Sundays, you can even participate in one of the activities at the center’s labs.

Pretend to be a meteorologist and give a weather report before going shopping for eco-friendly food at the “Little Green Shop” in the “Climate and Weather” area. Then, try the climbing wall, do some puzzles, and test your vertical jump height in the “Body and Brain” section.

Next, head to the “Energy and Environment in the North” area to learn all about clean energy developments. Finally, learn about the Northern Lights, constellations, and Earth’s magnetic field in “The Sky above Us” section. If you’re still looking for more to do, you can watch one of the many movies on offer at the planetarium.

Additionally, right next to the science center is the beautiful Tromsø Arctic-Alpine Botanic Garden . This garden, which is the world’s northernmost botanic garden, is free to enter and open year-round. The best time of year to visit, however, is from May to October, when the collection of Arctic, Antarctic, and alpine plants from all over the world is in full bloom.

• Hours : 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily
• Price of admission : 130 NOK ($15 USD) for adults; 70 NOK ($11 USD) for children; 330 NOK ($38.25 USD) for a family of 2 adults and three children

5. Northern Norway Art Museum in Tromso, the best Tromso art museum

At the Northern Norway Art Museum , you can admire artworks by Norwegian artists, Sami craftspeople, international contemporary artists, and more. You’ll always be able to see something different here, since this Tromso art gallery mainly hosts a series of temporary exhibitions.

If you’d like some expert guidance as you explore the museum, there are free guided tours on Sundays at 2:00 PM and on weekdays during opening hours. Grab a snack at the café if you’re feeling peckish and make some art of your own in the Maker Space. You can even bring home a souvenir made by a Sami designer from the museum’s gift shop.

• Hours : 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily, except Thursday; 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM, Thursday
• Price of admission : 80 NOK ($9.30 USD) for adults; free for children under 18

6. Perspectives Museum, an unusual Tromso museum

The Perspectives Museum is unlike any other museum in Tromso . Here, you can see a constantly changing series of temporary exhibitions that center on art, culture, literature, and more.

The museum’s focus is on human connections and cultural diversity, and it aims to foster tolerance and respect for different perspectives, hence the museum’s name. The museum’s permanent collection is home to an archive of over 500,000 photographs; objects, photographs, and art that belonged to the local writer Cora Sandel; and collections that were inherited from the Tromsø Town Museum and Troms Folk Museum.

• Hours : 10:00 AM to 4 PM, Tuesday – Friday; 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Saturday – Sunday; closed Mondays
• Price of admission : 50 NOK ($5.80 USD) for adults; free for children

7. Troll Museum, a cool museum in Tromso, Norway

Whatever time of year you visit Tromso, don’t miss the Troll Museum , which is by far the funkiest museum in Tromso . This museum is the first in Norway to focus entirely on trolls and fairy tales and provides the perfect means of learning more about Norwegian folk tales and beliefs.

The museum uses Augmented Reality (or AR: added animations, images, texts, and sounds via tablet) to really make its exhibits come alive. As you learn more about Norwegian fairy tales and myths, you’ll see the stories play out in front of you with illustrations and hand-crafted figures.

You can also play a series of troll-themed board games or read translated versions of the fairy tales for yourself in the Reading Room. If you really fall in love with the trolls, you can even take an AR one home with you from the gift shop.

• Hours : 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily
• Price of admission : 180 NOK ($21 USD) for adults; 100 NOK ($11.59 USD) for children 5-12; free for children under 5; 450 NOK ($52 USD) for family of 2 adults and 2 children

8. Tromso Center for Contemporary Art, a fantastic free Tromso art museum

Take in experimental and contemporary art at the Tromso Center for Contemporary Art , a free Tromso art museum and the oldest art institution in Northern Norway. The changing temporary exhibitions include works by many different Norwegian and international artists.

When you’re doing exploring the exhibition on display, stop in at the gift shop for some books or a souvenir.

• Hours : 12:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Wednesday to Sunday
• Price of admission : Free

As you’ll have seen, Tromso is home to a wide variety of incredible and unique museums. If you plan your trip to Tromso well in advance, you certainly won’t get bored if the weather is too bad to get outside and explore. Use the map below to find your way to the Tromso museums you’re interested in and see what other attractions are in the area.

I hope this article has helped you plan a fun-filled trip to Tromso. If you’re wondering where to stay, our article on the best hotels in Tromso will help you pick the perfect accommodation. Additionally, visiting museums isn’t the only activity Tromso has to offer; Tromso tours are also an exciting way to explore the area.

Enjoy exploring Tromso!

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Tromso To Lofoten: The Ultimate Bucket List Road Trip Itinerary

By: Author Angela Price

Posted on Last updated: March 25, 2024

Norway is one of the most beautiful countries to visit in Europe, and you will see why when you drive from Tromso to Lofoten. In this post, I highlight the most spectacular scenery, beautiful beaches, and remote villages you will see on this epic Northern Norway self-drive itinerary to Lofoten from Tromso.

I have included helpful directions with driving times and an interactive map that follows the route from Tromso to the Lofoten Islands. Find out about driving in Norway, places of interest between main destinations, and places to stay overnight. So, buckle up – you are in for a memorable drive high above the Arctic Circle!

Depending on how far you want to drive, you can adjust this Tromso to Lofoten road trip to suit your preferences. However long you spend visiting the Lofoten Islands, it is one of the best things to do in Norway, and it is definitely one of the prettiest!

This travel guide may contain affiliate links – please read my  disclaimer and privacy policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Driving from Tromso to Lofoten – What to Expect

Aside from some of the most incredible mountainous scenery you could imagine and the phenomena of the midnight sun in summer, the drive to Lofoten from Tromso will allow you to stop at traditional fishing villages, stay in a rorbuer, take a wildlife cruise, walk along sandy beaches, eat the freshest seafood, visit a Viking museum, and stand on the most southernly tip of the Lofoten Peninsula to mention just a few activities.

Sounds good? Of course, it does, so let me inspire you with my 12-day Tromso to Lofoten road trip itinerary. It will help you plan a similar trip, including driving times, places to stay and Lofoten attractions to visit along the way.

• Tromso for three nights
• Senja Island for one night
• Svolvaer for one night
• Nusfjord Arctic Resort for four nights
• Lofoten Links for one night
• Harstad/Narvik Airport hotel for one night

Tromso to Lofoten Map

This Tromso to Lofoten map pinpoints all the places I mention in this travel post, from places to stay, attractions to visit and viewpoints to stop at during the drive.

Things to know about driving in Lofoten

• Petrol Stations are few and far between, so don’t let your tank go too low.
• Convenience shops are also hard to find, so stop and re-stock when you see one. Get water, snacks, chocolate, etc., to keep you going during the drive.
• Norwegians drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Be prepared to go slow behind camper vans in some of the more touristy places. This part of the country is popular for caravanning in summer!
• Be aware of the speed limits on all roads and stick to them.
• Cars must have headlights switched on at all times while driving.
• Many car parks are pay-and-display. Download the EasyPark App so you are ready to pay when you’ve parked up.

Best time to do a Tromso to Lofoten Road Trip

Lofoten is an all-year-round destination; however, the best time to make a Lofoten road trip is in the summer when the roads and countryside aren’t cloaked with snow and driving visibility is good.

Travelling to Lofoten in summer will mean not having to walk around wearing numerous layers of clothes! When I visited in July, most of the days had temperatures in the high 20s, which was a big surprise for us and, so it seems, the local people we spoke to. That said, it was cloudy on a couple of days with light showers, so while not cold, it can be wet. As with summer in the UK, be prepared for all eventualities in Northern Norway.

Day 1 – Fly into Tromso

Three nights in tromso.

We flew from London to Oslo (2 hours) and then from Oslo to Tromso (2 hours). There are no direct flights into Tromso. Getting from the airport is easy by using the airport shuttle bus, which you will find to the right of the arrivals hall. I wouldn’t recommend pre-booking a taxi, as I did that, and it didn’t show up.

We had booked for one night at the Comfort Hotel Express as I knew we would be arriving close to midnight and didn’t want to splash the cash on just a few hours of sleep. It turned out it was a really comfortable room, and the receptionist gave us some good recommendations for coffee shops and attractions to visit in Tromso.

Day 2 and 3 – Exploring Tromsø

Our second two nights were spent at Clarion – The Edge , which is a luxury hotel on the waterfront by the Hurtigruten Terminal.

Other hotels in Tromsø around the harbour include: 

Scandic Ishavshotel , 

Radisson Blu Hotel  

  Clarion Collection Hotel Aurora .

Private rentals like the  Red Old House  are available in the local neighbourhood.

Tromso is well known as a winter destination where tourists head to participate in snowy activities and see the northern lights , but not so much as a place to visit in summer. Mistake! Tromso is a fantastic summer destination with plenty to see and do.

We spent two full days wandering around town, visiting the botanical gardens, taking the cable car to the top of Storsteinen, seeing the Arctic Cathedral, hunting out the street art, souvenir shopping, visiting the museums and getting our heads around the fact it never goes dark thanks to the Midnight Sun!

Tromso is full of attractions, so I don’t think it will be boring just because it’s high in the Arctic Circle – no, sir! It’s a vibrant place and is a university city, so there’s a young vibe running through the town.

You can read about Tromso in more detail in my post: 16 Great Reasons Why Tromso in Summer Is Worth Visiting .

Day 4 – Driving to Senja

Driving time from Tromso to Senja is 3 hours. Take the E8 out of Tromso, drop onto the E6 at Vollan, and then at Olsborg, drop onto the 855. Continue on the 855 to Finnfjordbotn, then onto the 86, which will take you into Senja. Add extra time for photo stops.

On our last morning in Tromso, we picked up a rental car and headed to the next overnight stop on our Tromso to Lofoten road trip, Norway’s second-largest island – Senja.

There are many reasons to visit Lofoten , and you will see why as you drive further into the Lofoten Archipelago. The further south you go, the more dramatic the scenery gets. There will be a lot of ‘oh wows’ being said on this trip.

Here are the stops we made on our way from Tromso to Senja:

• Ramfjordbotn
• Nordkjosbotn – two supermarkets and a burger joint are here, so stock up on supplies while you can!

One Night in Senja

Senja is often overlooked by travellers who want to stay on the main route and go straight from Tromso to the Lofoten Islands. However, this short detour meant we could stay in a traditional Norwegian lighthouse and visit some of the island’s attractions – it’s the perfect place to spend 24 hours.

Wondering what to do in Senja? You can find out in my post: Senja Norway: How to Spend One Day on Senja Island in Summer .

Want to stay in this lighthouse in Senja? You can book online at Norwegian Wild.

For alternative accommodations in Senja, please check Senja hotel availability and pricing on  Booking.com .

Day 5 – Driving to Svolvaer

The driving time from Senja to Svolvaer is 5 hours and 40 minutes. Take the 86 and 855 back out of Senja, drop onto the E6 and continue to Bjerkvik, where you will need to turn onto the E10 into Svolvaer.

A car ferry goes from Grylleford on Senja to Andenes, which can cut driving time. We didn’t use this service as it is not pre-bookable. You have to turn up, and I hope you get on. If you don’t, it could throw your plans out. For this reason, we opted to drive from Senja to Svolvaer.

It’s a long drive from Senja to Svolvaer; however, there are some charming places to stop along the route, and of course, the scenery just gets better and better. Expect to see rivers, lakes, streams, waterfalls, mountains, valleys, and cute red wooden villages dotted throughout the landscape. It’s like a fairytale!

Here are the stops we made on our way from Senja to Svolvaer:

Sir Henrik Waterfall is an easy 15-minute walk in and out of the car park (which is a simple layby). Turn off the E6 onto the Fv161, and the waterfall is close to the Polar Park, which, sadly, we didn’t have time to visit.

This is an interesting stop if you are interested in WW2 historic sites. This Narvik memorial marks the place where the Norwegian army made their first strike back against the Nazi army in 1940.

Husjordoya is an island in the middle of a fjord, which you will cross over via a bridge. We parked up here and went for a little walk along the river, where we came across information boards telling of Viking history and traditions. It’s a really green and picturesque location, as you can see from my photo.

If you are drawn to churches, you’ll spot a red-roofed chapel at the tip of an outlet. Take a quick detour, stretch your legs, and have a look at the 19th-century Sildpollne’s Chapel. It’s very remote and has beautiful lupins nearby (they are a regular sight in Lofoten).

Svolvaer – capital of the Lofoten Islands

One night in svolvaer.

After a day of driving, we officially arrived in the Lofoten Islands at Svolvaer. We checked in for one night at the Thon Hotel Lofoten , a modern building on the waterfront.

For alternative accommodations in Svolvaer, please check Svolvaer hotel availability and pricing on Booking.com .

Svolvaer wasn’t exactly what I imagined it would be. I had a picture in my head of a traditional mountain town similar to Tromso. It wasn’t – and I felt a little underwhelmed by its concrete buildings and parking lots, which made a blot on the otherwise incredibly beautiful landscape.

Nevertheless, Lofoten’s capital is a working port, has some good restaurants and is where you can board a cruise to the inner Trollfjorden, making it a tourist hotspot. It has red wooden cabins, which Lofoten is famous for, and a park with an interesting and unexpected art trail, so it’s a place you either warm to or choose to drive on through.

Day 7 – Driving to Nusfjord Arctic Resort

The driving time from Svolvaer to Nusfjord Arctic Resort is 1 hour and 40 minutes ( allow extra time for photo stops ). Take the E10 out of Svolvaer and continue on for around 90 minutes until you see the sign for Nusfjord. Turn onto the Fv807 and continue straight into the resort, where the road stops.

This part of your road trip in Lofoten will be completely incredible. Expect to see beautiful Lofoten beaches with golden sands that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean. See mighty mountains rising from inky lakes and sea inlets, drive past waterfalls, and, of course, visit a traditional fishing village and see the fjords that make up the Lofoten islands. If you have ever travelled to New Zealand and found the scenery amazing, Lofoten is like NZ South Island but on steroids!

Here are the stops we made on our way from Svolvaer to Nusfjord Arctic Resort:

• Rorvikstranda

Henningsvaer

• Bostad (you will pass back this way on the return journey)
• Haukland Beach
• Uttekliev Beach

Henningsvaer was one of my favourite places we visited during our Lofoten to Tromso trip. We spent around two hours wandering around this beautiful island, browsing its cute shops, stopping for coffee, cakes and beer, taking hundreds of photographs and checking out its football pitch – one of the world’s most famous due to its location. If you are a football fan, you will want to see this pitch!

Nusfjord Arctic Resort – Lofoten’s Historic Fishing Village

Four nights in a traditional fisherman’s rorbuer on stilts (you could reduce nights spent here to save time – however, you probably won’t want to!).

If you love unique places to stay, Nusfjord Arctic Resort is a must. All the buildings are original traditional structures, from the fisherman’s cabins (rorbuer) to the bakery and the fish processing barns.

Almost everything in the resort is historically authentic, making a stay here so special. In fact, if you watch BBC’s Amazing Hotels: Life Beyond the Lobby, you may have spotted this magical Lofoten resort being featured.

Day One – Arrived in the evening, headed for dinner at Karoline Restaurant and snuggled up in our fisherman’s rorbuer.

Day Two – Explored the village and learned about the history of Nusjord. Relaxed in the outdoor spa and enjoyed fabulous food.

Day Three – Took a private boat out to the fjords for half a day. Spent the rest of the day in the rorbuer relaxing with a book and wine.

Day Four – Drove to the most southern point of the Lofoten Peninsula, the village of Å. On route, we took photos of Reine from the bridge and had lunch at Lofoten’s one and only Anita’s Seafood Restaurant .

Pricing and availability for Nusfjord Arctic Resort on Booking.com.

Wondering what to do in Å? You can find out in my post: What To Do In Å: Lofoten’s Most Remote Preserved Fishing Village .

Day 11 – Driving to Lofoten Links

Today should have been the end of our time in the Lofoten Islands, and we should have been catching a plane from Leknes Airport to Oslo. Sadly, that wasn’t going to happen.

On our last day, we heard SAS Airlines had gone on strike, and the next flight we could get was four times as expensive and would be in two days’ time with Norwegian Air. Not ideal as we had plans in Oslo, but like all good travellers, we got on with the job of scouring the internet to find somewhere to stay for the next two nights.

We went to Lofoten Links for one night – a golf course and accommodations in Gimsoya.

And we stayed at the Aiden Hotel by Best Western at Narvik Airport the other night.

The driving time from Nusfjord Arctic Resort to Lofoten Links is 80 minutes (allow time to stop at Lofotr Viking Museum). Take the road out of Nusfjord Arctic Resort, continue on the E10, and cross the bridge at Sundklakkstraumen bru (I have plotted it on the map). Turn onto the Fv861 and continue to Saupstad, where the Fv862 takes over. Then it’s straight into Lofoten Links.

Here are the stops we made on our way from Nusfjord Arctic Resort to Lofoten Links:

Vikten is a beach village with red cabins dotted along the shoreline. We stopped here to visit the glassblowing studio , and I’m glad we did. I came home with a beautiful pink glass heart as a souvenir.

You can watch the glass-blower at work creating beautiful bowls, vases and hearts and then grab refreshments from the on-site cafe. Afterwards, wander along the beach and see the glass ornaments that are welded to the rocks.

Bostad – Lofotr Viking Museum

If my original flight hadn’t been cancelled, the Viking Museum wouldn’t have made it onto my itinerary due to time limitations, so getting the chance to visit it was great. It is a superb museum with a reconstruction of a Viking Longhouse on the grounds.

Step inside the longhouse and see how the Viking chieftain lived. You can dress up, play games, and, for a little extra, buy soup, bread and mead to enjoy at the wooden table that runs along the wall in part of the longhouse.

Afterwards, follow the path through the fields and down to the river, where you can sail around the lake in a scaled reconstruction of the Viking ship that is displayed in the Oslo Viking Ship Museum.

On my sailing, things got out of hand when the wind turned, and the sails became hard to control. I had visions of swimming back to land. All turned out well and added to the fun. You can also try axe throwing for free.

Lofoten Links

After a full day, we arrived at Lofoten Links in the evening. You can read about my stay at Lofoten Links in this post: Lofoten Links: Lodges and Golf in the Arctic Circle . It will give you a better idea of the accommodation and what to do there.

Day 12 – Driving To Harstad Narvik Airport

The driving time from Lofoten Links to Aiden Hotel at Harstad Narvik Airport is 3 hours . Take the E10 all the way to the airport.

Before we left Lofoten Links, we had a lovely morning walk along Hov Beach and then hopped in the car for our last drive before returning it to the airport.

We chose not to stop as we passed back through places we had already been, like Henningsvaer and Svolvaer. It was a straight drive to the hotel this time, with some dinner and an early night.

Day 13 – Flight from Narvik to Oslo

After a comfortable night in the Aiden Hotel , we called a taxi for the 5-minute journey to the terminal. Yes, you read that correctly! There is no way to cross from the hotel to the terminal as the wide main road (E10) is between you and it. So we had no choice but to call a taxi which charged us £50 for the 5-minute ride.

We felt very ripped off. This was a joke, even knowing how expensive it is in Norway; however, it was a case of paying up or watching the plane depart without us. After being stranded for two extra days, we were ready to be on our way, so we paid up and headed to Oslo for three days . Oh, and in case you are wondering, only two taxi firms are in the area, so they can charge what they like! It’s a shame our Tromso to Lofoten road trip ended on a sour note, but it would never detract from the enjoyment we had experienced in Northern Norway on this marvellous journey.

Is a Tromso to Lofoten Road Trip Worth Doing?

Yes, yes, and yes again! I have been fortunate to travel to amazing countries and see amazing sights, but Northern Norway has to be at the top of my list. Its raw natural beauty is spellbinding, and journeying through its mighty landscapes under the midnight sun is an experience I will never forget. Where else but in the Arctic can you sit on a beach close to midnight, and it’s still light?

Norway is one of Europe’s most mountainous countries, and its fjords are undoubtedly breathtaking. So do yourself a favour and visit Northern Norway and uncover its Nordic magic on a Tromso to Lofoten Bucket List Road Trip; you won’t be disappointed!

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